Chitwan Rhinos Set Pokhara Avengers a Target of 152 Runs

Chitwan Rhinos scored 151 runs for the loss of six wickets in 20 overs to set Pokhara Avengers a target of 152 runs in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) on Friday, November 6, 2026.

The match, the second fixture of the day, is being played at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. Chitwan were sent in to bat after losing the toss, with Pokhara choosing to bowl first.

Captain Sikandar Raza led the scoring for Chitwan with an aggressive 37 runs, while Ravi Bopara contributed 35. Arjun Saud and Dawid Malan also provided valuable contributions at the top of the order, scoring 31 and 28 runs respectively.

Saud and Malan Provide a Strong Opening

Chitwan made a positive start through the opening partnership between Arjun Saud and Dawid Malan.

The pair added 60 runs for the first wicket, giving their team a solid platform during the early stages of the innings. Saud scored 31 from 27 deliveries, including two boundaries and a six. Malan made 28 off 28 balls, hitting three fours.

However, Chitwan lost both openers in relatively quick succession, allowing Pokhara to regain some control of the innings.

Dan Mosley was dismissed for just two runs, while Kushal Malla, making his first appearance of the season in the match, managed 11 before returning to the pavilion.

Bopara and Raza Rebuild the Innings

With Chitwan at 86 for four, Ravi Bopara and captain Sikandar Raza took responsibility for rebuilding the innings.

The pair added 60 runs for the fifth wicket, helping Chitwan recover from the loss of four wickets and move towards a competitive total.

Bopara scored 35 from 28 deliveries, including three fours and a six. Raza played an attacking innings, striking 37 from just 16 balls with two fours and four sixes.

Both batters were dismissed by Pokhara captain Chamika Karunaratne in the final over, preventing Chitwan from finishing with an even stronger total. Kamal Singh Airee remained unbeaten on two runs.

Karunaratne Leads Pokhara's Bowling Attack

Chamika Karunaratne, who is captaining Pokhara in this match, played an important role with the ball during the closing stages.

Karunaratne, Bipin Khatri and Kushal Bhurtel claimed two wickets each to restrict Chitwan to 151 runs.

Pokhara will now need 152 runs in 20 overs to secure victory, with the required run rate standing at 7.60 runs per over.

Pressure on Pokhara to Chase the Target

The target presents Pokhara with an opportunity to respond after a difficult run of results in the tournament.

Pokhara made a leadership change following three consecutive defeats, appointing Sri Lankan all-rounder Chamika Karunaratne as captain in place of Kushal Bhurtel.

Chitwan, meanwhile, will look to defend their total through disciplined bowling and early breakthroughs.

With 152 runs required for victory, the outcome will depend on how effectively Pokhara's batting lineup handles Chitwan's bowling attack during the chase.