KIRTIPUR, October 27: Chitwan Rhinos began their Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2026 campaign with a hard-fought eight-run victory over Biratnagar Kings in the second match of Season 3 at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur on Tuesday.
After posting 157/3 in their allotted 20 overs, Chitwan produced a disciplined bowling performance to dismiss Biratnagar Kings for 149 in 19.3 overs, successfully defending their total and securing their first points of the tournament.
Dawid Malan Anchors Chitwan's Innings
England batter Dawid Malan was the standout performer with the bat, scoring an impressive 70 runs off 50 deliveries. His innings included five fours and five sixes, providing the foundation for Chitwan's competitive total.
Malan's contribution was supported by experienced all-rounders Dan Mousley and captain Ravi Bopara, who helped accelerate the scoring during the latter stages of the innings.
Mousley remained unbeaten on 29 from 22 balls, while Bopara contributed an unbeaten 31 off 26 deliveries. Their partnership ensured Chitwan finished strongly at 157/3 after 20 overs.
Andre Russell's Explosive Innings Falls Short
Chasing 158 for victory, Biratnagar Kings needed a strong batting performance but struggled to maintain consistency against Chitwan's bowling attack.
Imran Sheikh provided some resistance with 39 runs off 31 balls, while West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell brought the chase back to life with an aggressive 33 off just 17 deliveries, including four sixes.
Lokesh Bam also contributed 26 runs from 14 balls, giving Biratnagar hope during the chase. However, regular wickets at crucial moments prevented the Kings from building the momentum required to complete the chase.
Biratnagar eventually lost their final wicket at 149 in 19.3 overs, falling eight runs short of the target.
Kamal Singh Airee Leads Chitwan's Bowling Attack
Kamal Singh Airee was instrumental in Chitwan's victory, delivering an impressive bowling performance to finish with four wickets for 26 runs in four overs.
Rijan Dhakal also played an important role, claiming two wickets for 25 runs and helping Chitwan maintain pressure throughout the second innings.
For Biratnagar, Angelo Mathews and Charith Asalanka picked up one wicket each, but their bowling effort could not prevent Chitwan from posting a competitive total.
Chitwan Rhinos Make Winning Start to NPL Season 3
The victory gives Chitwan Rhinos a positive start to their NPL 2026 campaign. Their performance demonstrated the importance of contributions across both batting and bowling departments, with Malan providing the runs and Kamal Singh Airee leading the defence.
For Biratnagar Kings, the defeat will be disappointing after coming close to chasing down the target. Russell's quickfire innings and contributions from Imran Sheikh and Lokesh Bam provided hope, but the team ultimately fell short.
With several matches remaining in the league stage, both franchises will look to build momentum as they compete for a place in the NPL 2026 playoffs.
Chitwan Rhinos will take confidence from their opening victory, while Biratnagar Kings will aim to bounce back in their next fixture.