KIRTIPUR, October 27: Karnali Yaks opened their Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2026 campaign with a convincing 19-run victory over Janakpur Bolts in the third match of Season 3 at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur on Tuesday.
After being restricted to 132/9 in their allotted 20 overs, Karnali produced a disciplined bowling performance to dismiss Janakpur Bolts for 113, securing two valuable points and making a winning start to their campaign.
Ariful Islam and Pawan Sarraf Help Karnali Post 132
Batting first, Karnali Yaks found it difficult to establish long partnerships against a determined Janakpur bowling attack. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, they managed to put together a competitive total of 132/9.
Bangladesh batter Ariful Islam was the leading scorer for Karnali, producing an important innings of 43 runs from 29 deliveries. His contribution provided stability to the batting lineup when the team needed someone to take responsibility.
Pawan Sarraf also played a valuable role, scoring 37 runs to help Karnali reach a defendable total.
For Janakpur, captain Harmeet Singh led from the front with the ball, claiming three wickets for 22 runs. Rahul Yadav and England all-rounder Moeen Ali also picked up two wickets each, preventing Karnali from building a bigger total.
Karnali Bowlers Restrict Janakpur to 113
Chasing 133 for victory, Janakpur Bolts needed a steady start but struggled to maintain momentum against Karnali's bowling attack.
The Yaks continued to take wickets at important moments, preventing the Bolts from building the partnerships required to stay in contention. The mounting pressure eventually proved too much for Janakpur, who were dismissed for 113.
Karnali's collective bowling effort ensured that the target remained beyond Janakpur's reach, completing a 19-run victory for the Yaks.
A Positive Start for Karnali Yaks
The victory provides Karnali Yaks with an encouraging beginning to their NPL Season 3 campaign. Ariful Islam and Pawan Sarraf made important contributions with the bat, while the bowling unit successfully defended a relatively modest total.
For Janakpur Bolts, the defeat is a disappointing start, particularly after entering the competition with expectations of a stronger campaign. The 2024 champions will need to improve their batting performance and build better partnerships in their upcoming matches.
With the league stage still in its early days, both teams have plenty of opportunities to recover and strengthen their positions in the race for the playoffs.
Karnali Yaks, meanwhile, will take confidence from their ability to defend 132 and secure two important points against a former NPL champion.