Chitwan Rhinos secured a thrilling 8-run victory over Biratnagar Kings in an exciting Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2026 encounter at the TU International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. Despite a powerful late innings from West Indian all-rounder Andre Russell, Biratnagar Kings failed to chase down the target of 158 runs and were bowled out for 149, suffering a heartbreaking defeat.
Chasing 158 for victory, Biratnagar Kings started their innings positively, with openers Imran Sheikh and Lokesh Bam providing a strong foundation. Bam played an aggressive knock of 26 runs off just 14 balls, hitting four boundaries and a six to give his team early momentum. Imran Sheikh continued to keep the chase on track with a composed innings of 39 runs from 31 deliveries, helping Biratnagar build a promising position.
However, the Kings lost wickets at regular intervals and found themselves at 87/4 when Andre Russell joined Angelo Mathews at the crease. The arrival of Russell brought fresh excitement to the chase as the powerful batter launched an aggressive counterattack against the Chitwan bowlers. Russell smashed 33 runs off only 17 balls, including four sixes and a boundary, putting Biratnagar back in contention.
With the score reaching 132/5, the Kings appeared to have a genuine chance of completing the chase. They needed 26 runs from the remaining 25 balls, and Russell's explosive batting had shifted the pressure onto Chitwan Rhinos. However, his dismissal proved to be a crucial turning point in the match.
Following Russell's departure, Biratnagar's innings quickly lost momentum. Angelo Mathews scored 14 runs off 16 balls but could not guide the team to victory as the lower order struggled to handle the pressure. Rupesh Kumar Singh, Pratis GC and captain Sandeep Lamichhane were all dismissed without scoring, leaving the Kings with little hope of recovering.
Chitwan Rhinos held their nerve during the closing overs, taking advantage of Biratnagar's late collapse to defend their total successfully. The eight-run victory highlighted how quickly a T20 match can change, even when a chasing team appears to be in control.
For Biratnagar Kings, Russell's explosive cameo and Sheikh's valuable contribution were not enough to prevent defeat. Chitwan Rhinos, meanwhile, will take confidence from their ability to remain composed under pressure