Bopara Half-Century Anchors Chitwan Rhinos to 142 Target Against Lumbini Lions

Chitwan Rhinos set a target of 143 runs for the Lumbini Lions in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) after veteran batsman Ravi Bopara registered his second consecutive half-century. Playing at the TU International Cricket Stadium in Kirtipur, the Rhinos, after being asked to bat first, posted a total of 142 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their allotted 20 overs.

Ravi Bopara was the top scorer for Chitwan, contributing 66 runs from 55 deliveries, an innings that included four boundaries and three sixes. This performance follows his 52-run knock in the previous match against Karnali Yaks. Captain Kushal Malla added 21 runs to the total.

Other contributors included Saif Zaib, Dev Khanal, and Dipak Bohara, who were all dismissed after scoring 15, 15, and 10 runs, respectively. The consistent scoring allowed the Rhinos to reach a competitive total on the Kirtipur pitch.

Lumbini’s bowling attack was spearheaded by Namibian player Ruben Trumpelmann, who claimed three wickets for 23 runs in his four-over spell. Young spinner Abhisek Gautam provided excellent support, taking two wickets while conceding only 15 runs across his three overs. Gulbadin Naib also picked up two wickets, finishing his four overs with figures of 2/33.

The 143-run target now places the pressure on the Lumbini Lions’ batting lineup as they begin their chase to secure a victory in this NPL fixture.