Kathmandu: Janakpur Bolts etched their name in history as the inaugural champions of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) with a nail-biting five-wicket win over Sudurpaschim Royals in the final held at Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground, Kirtipur. Opener Lahiru Milantha’s explosive batting performance was the highlight of the match, earning him the Player of the Match title for his scintillating knock of 87 runs off just 49 balls.
Milantha’s innings, featuring nine boundaries and four sixes, anchored the Bolts’ chase of a daunting 185-run target. His match-winning contribution earned him a cash prize of Rs 50,000. Captain Asif Sheikh provided a fiery start, smashing 33 off 19 balls, while Harsh Thaker added a steady 30 to guide the Bolts to victory in 19.2 overs.
The triumph marks a historic moment for Janakpur Bolts, who walked away with the coveted trophy and a cash prize of Rs 11.1 million. Pre-match favorites Sudurpaschim Royals had to settle for the runner-up spot and Rs 5.1 million.
Under the guidance of coach Pubudu Dassanayake, the Bolts delivered a comprehensive performance in the grand finale. The historic victory not only cements Janakpur Bolts’ place as the first-ever NPL champions but also sets a high standard for the tournament in years to come.