Chitwan Rhinos clinched an impressive 48-run victory over Biratnagar Kings in the Siddhartha Bank Nepal Premier League (NPL). The win ended Biratnagar Kings’ unbeaten run in the tournament.

Chitwan’s Ranjit Kumar was the star of the match, taking five wickets, which brought Biratnagar’s winning streak to a halt. Biratnagar, who had won their first three matches, faced their first loss and now have 6 points from 4 matches. With this win, Chitwan secured their second victory and have 4 points from 3 matches.

Ranjit delivered an exceptional spell, finishing with 4 overs, 21 runs, and 5 wickets, becoming the first bowler of this season to claim five wickets in a single match. Kamal Singh Airee took 2 wickets, while Sohail Tanvir, Saif Zaib, and captain Kushal Malla picked up one wicket each.

Chasing a target of 175 runs, Biratnagar Kings were bowled out for 126 runs in 16.5 overs. For Biratnagar, Merchant de Lange scored 39, Pratish GC made 30, and Hazlett contributed 22 runs. Eight of their batters failed to reach double digits, leading to a collapse.

Earlier, after losing the toss, Chitwan Rhinos posted 174/5 in 20 overs. Ravi Bopara top-scored with 65 runs, while Saif Zaib added 32, Dev Khanal made 28, and captain Kushal Malla remained unbeaten on 20.

For Biratnagar, Merchant de Lange and captain Sandeep Lamichhane took two wickets each, while Shubham Ranjan claimed one.