NPL Season 3: Lumbini Lions Top Table with 8-Wicket Win Over Pokhara Avengers

3rd November 2026, Kathmandu

Lumbini Lions Climb to Top of NPL Table with 8-Wicket Victory Over Pokhara Avengers

Lumbini Lions climbed to the top of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) standings after securing a convincing 8-wicket victory over Pokhara Avengers. Chasing a modest target of 98 runs, Lumbini reached the goal in 11.4 overs, with captain Rohit Paudel scoring a match-high 47 runs. The loss marks Pokhara’s third consecutive defeat in the tournament.

Lumbini Lions surged to the top of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) standings following a dominant 8-wicket victory over Pokhara Avengers in today’s second match at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur.

With this victory, Lumbini Lions have secured 5 points from three matches to claim the top spot, while Pokhara Avengers remain anchored at the bottom of the table after suffering their third consecutive defeat.

Dominant Run Chase Led by Captain Rohit Paudel

Chasing a modest target of 98 runs, Lumbini Lions made quick work of the chase, reaching 98/2 in just 11.4 overs.

Skipper Rohit Paudel led from the front, anchoring the chase with a match-high 47 runs to steer his side home with 50 balls to spare. Pokhara’s Bipin Khatri was the lone success with the ball, picking up 1 wicket.

Ruben Trumpelmann and Tilak Bhandari Restrain Pokhara

Earlier in the day, Lumbini Lions won the toss and elected to field, putting immediate pressure on the Pokhara batting lineup. Pokhara Avengers struggled to build momentum throughout their innings, eventually restricted to 97/9 in their allotted 20 overs.

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Chamika Karunaratne top-scored for Pokhara with a resilient 25 runs.

Captain Kushal Bhurtel added 14 runs before falling to Lumbini’s disciplined bowling attack.

Lumbini’s bowling effort was spearheaded by Ruben Trumpelmann, who picked up 3 crucial wickets, while Tilak Bhandari provided strong support with 2 wickets.

Biratnagar Kings Edge Out Janakpur Bolts in Opener

In the day’s opening encounter at Kirtipur, Biratnagar Kings held their nerve to secure a thrilling 2-run victory over Janakpur Bolts in a closely fought contest.

Match Summary

For more: Lumbini Lions Top Table 8-Wicket Win