Sudurpaschim Royals clinched a six-wicket victory over Karnali Yaks in the Nepal Premier League at Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur, on Monday.

Chasing a modest target of 102, Sudurpaschim reached 105 for 4 in 15.2 overs, with Ishan Pandey and skipper Dipendra Singh Airee anchoring the innings. Airee’s quick 38 off 29 balls, including four boundaries and a six, and Pandey’s 38 from 36 deliveries guided the Royals to a comfortable win.

Karnali’s bowlers struggled to contain the opposition after a promising start. Captain Sompal Kami took 1 for 20 in 2.2 overs, while Bipin Sharma and Nandan Yadav chipped in with a wicket each. Despite Karnali’s early breakthroughs, the Royals maintained composure to seal the match.

Earlier, Karnali Yaks batted first after Sudurpaschim won the toss and opted to field. The Yaks were bowled out for 101 in 20 overs, unable to capitalise on the powerplay. Zeeshan Maqsood top-scored with 30 runs off 35 balls, but the rest of the batting lineup faltered. William Bosisto added 16 runs, while Sompal Kami contributed 11 off nine balls.

Sudurpaschim’s bowlers dominated the innings, with Harmeet Singh leading the attack with figures of 3 for 17. Scott Kuggeleijn and Dipendra Singh Airee also claimed two wickets each, while Saif Zaib picked up one. The Royals’ disciplined bowling restricted Karnali’s scoring opportunities, as only four players managed double-digit scores.

Despite the loss, Karnali Yaks have secured their place as the fourth team in the playoffs, while Kathmandu Gurkhas have been eliminated after the league stage. Sudurpaschim Royals failed to chase Karnali’s target of 102 runs within 13 overs, a condition required for Kathmandu Gurkhas to advance to the playoffs. As a result, Karnali Yaks progressed to the playoffs.

Sudurpaschim Royals will take on Janakpur Bolts in the first qualifier after defeating Karnali Yaks in the final league match on Monday.

Meanwhile, Chitwan Rhinos and Karnali Yaks will compete in the eliminator.

At the end of the league stage, Sudurpaschim topped the table with 12 points from seven matches, followed by Janakpur in second place. Chitwan secured third place, while Karnali finished fourth.

The winner of the first qualifier will advance directly to the final, while the losing side will face the eliminator winner in the second qualifier for another chance to reach the final.