KATHMANDU: The stage is set for a thrilling showdown in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) cricket final as Sudurpaschim Royals and Janakpur Bolts clash today at 12:30 pm at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground in Kirtipur.
This high-stakes match, being dubbed the ‘El’ Classico’ by many fans, promises to deliver an intense battle between two formidable teams.
In their two previous encounters this season, Sudurpaschim Royals have dominated the Janakpur Bolts.
In the first qualifier, Sudurpaschim secured an emphatic 8-wicket victory. Batting first, Janakpur set a target of 140 runs for 9 wickets in 20 overs, with James Neesham top-scoring with 45 runs.
However, Sudurpaschim comfortably chased the target in 18.3 overs, losing only 2 wickets.
Janakpur’s bowlers struggled, with Lalit Rajbanshi conceding 37 runs in 4 overs, while Neesham and Mohammad Mohsin also proved expensive.
Their earlier meeting during the league stage on December 11 also ended in a one-sided affair as Sudurpaschim handed Janakpur a crushing 72-run defeat.
Batting first, Sudurpaschim posted a modest target of 123 runs. In response, Janakpur collapsed for just 51 runs in 12.1 overs — the lowest total recorded in the tournament.
The loss highlighted Janakpur’s vulnerability under pressure, particularly against Sudurpaschim’s disciplined bowling attack.
Sudurpaschim Royals have been the standout team in this year’s NPL, losing only once in the league stage.
They opened their campaign with a 90-run win over Biratnagar, followed by a 73-run victory over Kathmandu and a 45-run win against Lumbini.
Their only setback came against Chitwan, who beat them by 33 runs. However, Sudurpaschim bounced back strongly, defeating Janakpur by 72 runs, then clinching close victories over Pokhara and Karnali to finish the league stage on a high note.
Their consistent performance, strong batting lineup, and reliable bowlers have made them favorites to lift the trophy. The team’s ability to handle pressure and capitalize on opponents’ weaknesses has been key to their success.
Janakpur Bolts have shown resilience and determination throughout the tournament. They started the league stage with four consecutive wins, including a dominant 8-wicket victory over Biratnagar and a 7-wicket win over Karnali.
A narrow 1-run victory against Lumbini demonstrated their grit and fighting spirit.
However, Janakpur stumbled against Sudurpaschim and Chitwan, losing by 72 runs and 32 runs, respectively.
Despite these setbacks, they regrouped and secured a spot in the final through the second qualifier by defeating Karnali Yaks by 2 wickets.
Chasing a target of 119 runs, Janakpur showed nerves of steel to cross the finish line in 18.5 overs, proving they cannot be underestimated.
While Sudurpaschim Royals are favored based on their head-to-head dominance, Janakpur Bolts have shown they can rise to the occasion.
Their ability to recover from defeats and deliver clutch performances makes them dangerous opponents. James Neesham’s all-round abilities and key contributions from other players could tilt the balance in their favor if they perform at their best.
With a sold-out TU Cricket Ground and millions of viewers at home, the final of the inaugural NPL promises to be an exciting and unpredictable showdown.
Whether Sudurpaschim continues their dominance or Janakpur pulls off a dramatic comeback, the NPL final is sure to be a spectacle to remember.
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