In a thrilling contest of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2025, Kathmandu Gorkhas defeated Chitwan Rhinos by 53 runs, powered by a blistering innings from wicketkeeper-batter John Simpson. Playing at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, Simpson scored a rapid 60 off just 29 balls, rescuing his team from an early collapse and setting the platform for a commanding total.
Kathmandu’s innings began shakily, losing three early wickets for just 24 runs in the first five overs. Aakash Tripathi, Rashid Khan, and Ben Charlesworth fell cheaply, leaving the team in a precarious position. At that point, Simpson, alongside Milind Kumar, stabilized the innings with a crucial 98-run fourth-wicket partnership. Milind contributed a steady 38 runs, rotating the strike and supporting Simpson’s aggressive stroke play.
Simpson’s innings was marked by audacious shot-making, including five sixes and three boundaries, and he reached his fifty in just 25 deliveries. His explosive knock transformed what looked like a vulnerable total into a competitive 142 all out in 19.4 overs, despite a late wobble from the lower order.
Chasing 143, Chitwan Rhinos struggled against disciplined bowling from Kathmandu. The bowlers maintained tight lines, building pressure and claiming wickets at regular intervals. Chitwan’s innings never recovered, and they were dismissed for just 89 in 17.2 overs, handing Kathmandu a convincing 53-run victory.
Sohail Tanvir was the standout bowler for Chitwan, taking four wickets for 25 runs, but even his efforts could not prevent the comprehensive defeat. Kathmandu’s bowling unit complemented Simpson’s innings perfectly, restricting the Rhinos and ensuring the target was defended comfortably.
With this win, Kathmandu Gorkhas climbed to third place in the NPL points table, strengthening their prospects for the playoff stages. Simpson’s dynamic performance earned him the Player of the Match award and highlighted the impact a single innings can have in a short-format game.
For Chitwan Rhinos, the match exposed shortcomings in their batting lineup, particularly under pressure, as they failed to build partnerships or chase down a modest target. The loss emphasized the need for composure and resilience, even in T20 contests.
The game underscored the importance of impactful, high-tempo batting in franchise cricket. Simpson’s innings exemplified how aggressive and well-timed batting can swing momentum, rescue a struggling side, and set the stage for victory. For Kathmandu, the performance reinforced their depth and adaptability, while Chitwan will need to regroup and find consistency to remain competitive in the NPL 2025.
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