The Janakpur Bolts beat the Kathmandu Gurkhas by 5 wickets in the Nepal Premier League 2024 match 21 to become the first team to reach the playoffs on Thursday (December 12). (More Cricket News)

Kathmandu Gurkhas won the toss and opted to bat first, but their decision backfired soon as they were bowled out for a mere 101 runs in 19.3 overs. Lalit Rajbanshi delivered an exceptional spell, claiming 3 wickets for just 8 runs in his 4 overs, while Sher Malla was equally impressive with figures of 3 for 11 in 3.3 overs.

None of the Gurkhas' batters could manage a score above 20, with Gerhard Erasmus top-scoring with 20 off 22 balls.

In the second innings, Harsh Thaker (25 off 25 balls) and James Neesham (27 off 17 balls) guided the Bolts to victory with ease, chasing down the target in 15.5 overs, finishing at 104/5.

The Bolts had remained unbeaten in their first four matches but suffered their first loss in the previous game, going down by 72 runs to Sudurpaschim Royals. Meanwhile, the Gurkhas claimed victory in their last encounter, beating Lumbini Lions by 18 runs.

Currently, the Janakpyr Boltssabong.bet, led by Anil Sah, are at the top of the NPL 2024 standings with 10 points from 6 matches and have secured a playoff spot. The Kathmandu Gurkhas, on the other hand, are fifth with 4 points from five matches.

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