Andre Russell Stars as Biratnagar Kings Edge Janakpur by 2 Runs
Kirtipur, Kathmandu — When a franchise invests in a global Twenty20 superstar like Andre Russell, it is for moments of high-stakes drama exactly like Tuesday afternoon at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. Producing one of the most commanding all-round individual performances in Siddhartha Bank Nepal Premier League (NPL) history, “Dre Russ” hammered an unbeaten 52 off 29 deliveries and returned to claim four wickets for 45 runs—including the match-winning wicket off the final ball of the 20th over—to steer the Biratnagar Kings to a thrilling two-run victory over the Janakpur Bolts.
The Nepal Premier League is Nepal’s premier professional Twenty20 tournament organized by the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN). Having suffered two narrow losses in their opening fixtures, Sandeep Lamichhane’s Kings defended 174 for three by holding Janakpur to 172 for seven in 20 overs in Match 12 to record their first triumph of Season 3.
- Fixture: Biratnagar Kings vs Janakpur Bolts (Match 12, NPL Season 3)
- Venue: Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur
- Biratnagar Kings: 174/3 in 20.0 overs (Andre Russell 52*, Lokesh Bam 32; Harmeet Singh 1/28)
- Janakpur Bolts: 172/7 in 20.0 overs (Saif Hassan 71; Andre Russell 4/45, Sandeep Lamichhane 1/26)
- Result: Biratnagar Kings won by 2 runs
- Player of the Match: Andre Russell (52* off 29 balls & 4/45)
Andre Russell’s 29-Ball 52* Powers Biratnagar Kings to 174/3
Batting first on a true daytime surface at Kirtipur, Biratnagar’s top order established a stable foundation before unleashing their Caribbean all-rounder in the second half of the innings.
Striking the ball with signature power straight down the ground and over the mid-wicket boundary, Andre Russell reached his half-century in just 28 balls, finishing on 52 not out from 29 deliveries with four boundaries and four towering sixes. His unbroken late stand with American all-rounder Shubham Ranjane lifted Biratnagar to an imposing 174 for three.
Last-Ball Drama: Russell Dismisses Saif Hassan (71) to Seal 2-Run Heist
Chasing 175 to capture solo first place on the NPL standings, Janakpur Bolts remained in contention courtesy of a brilliant innings from Bangladeshi top-order batter Saif Hassan, who stroked 71 off 48 balls with six fours and three sixes.
With Janakpur needing 11 runs from the final over bowled by Russell, the contest intensified down to the very last delivery:
- 19.5 Overs: Saif Hassan struck Russell for a boundary through point, leaving Janakpur requiring three runs to win (or two runs for a Super Over) off the ultimate ball.
- 19.6 Overs: Russell delivered a pinpoint wide yorker that induced a sliced loft from Saif Hassan, caught calmly by Basir Ahamad at deep cover to complete his four-wicket haul (4/45) and secure a two-run victory.
Playoff Implications at Kirtipur
The hard-earned two points propel Biratnagar Kings right back into top-four contention with three points on the board, while Janakpur Bolts remain locked on four points after four completed fixtures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was the margin of victory for Biratnagar Kings?
Biratnagar Kings won by 2 runs, restricting Janakpur Bolts to 172/7 after posting 174/3 in their 20 overs.
Who was awarded Player of the Match?
West Indian all-rounder Andre Russell received Player of the Match honours for his 52 not out off 29 deliveries and bowling figures of 4 for 45.
What was required off the final delivery?
Janakpur Bolts required three runs to win or two to tie, but Andre Russell dismissed set batter Saif Hassan (71) on the final ball.
Where are NPL Season 3 matches broadcast?
Matches are broadcast live across Nepal on Action Sports HD and digitally streamed through official CAN partner platforms.
