Karnali Yaks Defeat Janakpur Bolts by 19 Runs in Nepal Premier League

Karnali Yaks began their Nepal Premier League campaign with a 19-run victory over Janakpur Bolts at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. Karnali posted a total of 132 runs in their innings, supported by top scorer Ariful Islam, who made 43 runs, alongside a contribution of 36 runs from Pawan Sarraf. During the first innings, Janakpur Bolts captain Harmeet Singh claimed three wickets, while team-mates Moeen Ali and Rahul Yadav took two wickets apiece. Hussain Talat, Mark Watt, Akbar Ali, Sompal Kami and Yuvraj Khatri also featured in the bowling line-up. Karnali bowler Younis Thakuri conceded 22 runs in his four overs, while Hussain Talat gave away 26 runs. Chasing a target of 133 runs, Janakpur Bolts were bowled out for 113 runs in 19.3 overs. Abhishek Tiwari posted the highest individual score for Janakpur with 20 runs. Captain Harmeet Singh and Moeen Ali contributed 19 runs each, while Jimmy Neesham scored 15 and opener Mayan Yadav added 14 runs. Nandan Yadav chipped in with nine runs towards the end of the chase. Karnali's bowling attack contained the opposition, with Nandan Yadav taking two wickets and Sompal Kami capturing one wicket. Additional contributions came from Kushal Perera, who managed six runs, while Trith Raj Das, Rahul Yadav and Lalit Rajbanshi scored one run each, completing Karnali's successful defence in their opening match.