Lumbini Lions began their NPL 2026 campaign with a convincing seven-wicket victory over Sudurpaschim Royals after bowling them out for just 87 runs at the TU International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur, on Monday.
Sudurpaschim’s innings quickly fell apart after a promising start. Binod Bhandari scored 9 off 8 balls before departing at 24, and the Royals slipped to 28/3 in just 4.4 overs. Saif Zaib made 13, but wickets continued to tumble as the team struggled to build partnerships.
Captain Dipendra Singh Airee fought back with 27 off 23 balls, while Anil Kharel remained unbeaten on 15. However, the Royals lost their final five wickets for just 31 runs and were bowled out for 87 in 17.2 overs.
Kishor Mahato led Lumbini’s attack with 4/28, while Sher Malla delivered an outstanding spell of 3/11. Mahato’s breakthroughs and Malla’s economical bowling kept Sudurpaschim under constant pressure.
In reply, Lumbini made light work of the target. D’Arcy Short smashed 40 off just 18 balls, including four fours and three sixes, while Aasif Sheikh contributed 32 off 25 deliveries. Their 71-run opening stand put Lumbini firmly in control. Despite three wickets falling, Lumbini reached 88/3 in only 9.5 overs to seal the win.
Match summary
- Sudurpaschim Royals: 87 all out (17.2 overs)
- Lumbini Lions: 88/3 (9.5 overs)
- Top scorer: Dipendra Singh Airee — 27 (23)
- Best bowler: Kishor Mahato — 4/28
- Player-impact performance: D’Arcy Short — 40 (18)
Lumbini’s bowlers set up the victory with a disciplined performance, and their openers finished the job in emphatic fashion.
