Janakpur has become the first team to secure a place in the playoffs of the Nepal Premier League. On Thursday afternoon, they defeated Kathmandu Gurkhas by five wickets, ensuring their position in the next stage of the tournament.

Batting first after winning the toss, Kathmandu Gurkhas set a target of 102 runs for Janakpur. The chase was completed comfortably in the final ball of the 16th over, with Janakpur losing only five wickets.

Having lost just one match in the tournament so far, Janakpur secured their playoff spot even before their final league game.

In Janakpur’s victory, Harsh Thaker remained unbeaten on 25 runs, while Mohammad Mohsin contributed 13 not out. Lahiru Milantha scored 16 runs, and Aasif Sheikh was dismissed for just 2. Anil Sah added 11 runs, Shubh Kansakar scored 5, and Jimmy Neesham made 27 runs.

For Kathmandu, Karan KC took two wickets, while Shahab Alam, Dipesh Kandel, and Gerhard Erasmus each claimed one wicket.

Despite the loss, Kathmandu's playoff hopes are still alive, but they now face the pressure of winning their remaining two matches and relying on favourable outcomes in other games.

Earlier, Kathmandu Gurkhas were bowled out for 101 runs in 19.3 overs. They struggled to build partnerships, losing wickets at regular intervals.

For Kathmandu, Gerhard Erasmus scored the highest with 20 runs, followed by Karan KC with 19 runs. Other notable contributions included Stephen Eskinazi (17 runs) and Shahab Alam (8 not out).

Janakpur’s bowling was led by Lalit Rajbanshi, who claimed three wickets. Sher Malla also took three, while Mohammad Mohsin picked up two, and Kishore Mahato and Arniko Yadav chipped in with one wicket each.

Janakpur’s disciplined performance has made them the team to beat as the playoffs approach.