KIRTIPUR, November 7: Kathmandu Gorkhas produced an impressive performance to defeat defending champions Lumbini Lions by 36 runs in Match 18 of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2026 at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground on Saturday.
David Warner led the way with a half-century as Kathmandu posted 160/8 after being asked to bat. In reply, Lumbini struggled from the beginning and were bowled out for 124 in 19.3 overs. The defeat ended the Lions' unbeaten start to the tournament.
Warner and Patel Build a Strong Opening Partnership
Lumbini captain won the toss and elected to field, but Kathmandu's opening pair gave the side a solid foundation. David Warner and Sahil Patel added 104 runs for the first wicket in 13.2 overs.
Warner scored 66 off 50 deliveries, striking nine fours and a six. Patel provided steady support with 38 off 36 balls, helping Kathmandu build a strong platform before the wickets began to fall.
Lumbini pulled things back with regular breakthroughs, but Sahan Arachchige provided a late boost with an aggressive 34 off just 15 deliveries. His contribution helped Kathmandu reach 160/8 in their allotted 20 overs.
Abhishesh Gautam, Sher Malla and Ruben Trumpelmann picked up two wickets apiece for Lumbini.
Jahandad Khan Leads Kathmandu's Bowling Attack
Lumbini's chase of 161 got off to a disastrous start. The defending champions lost six wickets for just 28 runs, leaving them in serious trouble early in the innings.
Sundeep Jora tried to steady the innings with 45 off 45 balls. He shared a 46-run partnership for the eighth wicket with Abhishesh Gautam, but the recovery came too late to bring Lumbini back into contention.
Jahandad Khan was the standout bowler for Kathmandu, finishing with figures of 4/23 from four overs. Captain Karan KC also made an important contribution with 2/24 as Lumbini were dismissed for 124 in 19.3 overs.
Lumbini's Unbeaten Run Comes to an End
The result brought an end to Lumbini Lions' 10-match unbeaten run, which included six consecutive victories in the previous season and four unbeaten matches in the current campaign.
Despite the defeat, Lumbini remain at the top of the NPL 2026 standings with seven points from five matches. Kathmandu Gorkhas move into second place with six points from four matches, level on points with Sudurpaschim Royals, who sit third on net run rate.
The victory also continues Kathmandu's recovery after their opening defeat to Janakpur Bolts. They have since beaten Karnali Yaks, Biratnagar Kings and now the defending champions.
Warner has been central to that turnaround. After scoring 16 on his debut against Karnali and an unbeaten 44 against Biratnagar, he produced his highest score of the tournament so far with 66 against Lumbini.