KATHMANDU: Biratnagar Kings’ second win in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) has dealt a major blow to Chitwan Rhinos’ playoff hopes.
In the second match on Friday, Biratnagar defeated Chitwan by 51 runs, securing their second win of the tournament.
Biratnagar, which had been nearly eliminated from the race for the top four, now has four points from six matches, with two wins and four losses.
Biratnagar’s final match of the league will be against Kathmandu Gurkhas, who are still in contention for a playoff spot.
Kathmandu will be eager to defeat Biratnagar in order to strengthen their own chances of qualifying.
Even if Biratnagar wins their final match, it will be difficult for them to reach the top four.
A victory would not be enough on its own; the results of other matches, particularly between Kathmandu and Pokhara, will also play a crucial role.
The outcomes and net run rates of Chitwan, Kathmandu, and Pokhara will significantly impact Biratnagar’s hopes of advancing.
Meanwhile, Chitwan’s playoff journey now hangs in the balance after their defeat to Biratnagar.
Chitwan will face Janakpur Bolts in their final league match on Saturday.
Janakpur, already qualified for the playoffs and a strong title contender, will be a tough challenge for Chitwan.
Currently, Chitwan sits in fourth place with 6 points from 6 matches, having won 3 and lost 3.
However, their qualification hopes are now heavily dependent on the outcomes of matches involving Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Karnali, as well as their own result against Janakpur.
Chasing a competitive target of 182 runs set by Biratnagar, Chitwan could only manage 130 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in their 20 overs.
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