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Kathmandu — Pokhara Avengers registered a convincing 8-wicket victory over Chitwan Rhinos in the second match of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) played today at the TU Cricket Ground in Kirtipur.

Batting first after winning the toss, Chitwan Rhinos posted a modest total of 121 runs for 6 wickets in their 20 overs. In reply, Pokhara Avengers chased down the target in 19.4 overs, losing only two wickets and sealing a dominant win with two balls to spare.

Pokhara’s chase was anchored by a brilliant innings from Adam Washington, who top-scored with 65 runs off 48 balls, smashing 4 fours and 5 sixes. Arjun played a steady knock of 43 runs*, while captain Kushal Bhurtel managed 4 runs. Jason Roy remained unbeaten on 6. Chitwan’s Saif Zaib and Rijan Dhakal picked up one wicket each.

Earlier, Chitwan’s innings was supported by Dev Khanal, who scored 35 runs, and Alpesh Ramjani, who contributed 33. Captain Kushal Malla added 23, while Saif Zaib chipped in with 17. David Malan (5), Arjun Saud (1), and Ravi Bopara (1) fell cheaply. Kamal Singh Airee remained not out on 2.

Pokhara’s bowling attack was led by Dhananjaya Lakshan, who claimed 3 wickets, while Bipin Khatri, Rohit Chand, and Kiran Thagunna took one wicket each.

Both teams are already out of playoff contention. Chitwan Rhinos sit sixth on the table with 2 wins and 4 losses from six matches, while Pokhara Avengers are in fifth place with one win and five losses.

Along with Pokhara and Chitwan, Karnali and Janakpur have also been eliminated from the playoff race.