KATHMANDU: Sudurpaschim Royals confirmed their spot in the playoffs of the second season of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) after defeating defending champions Janakpur Bolts by six wickets in Kirtipur on Saturday.

The Royals remained unbeaten in their first five matches, while Janakpur slumped to their fourth straight loss and are now the only winless team of the tournament.

The victory also allowed Sudurpaschim to avenge their defeat in last season’s final.

Chasing a target of 146, Sudurpaschim reached 148/4 in 17.4 overs, thanks to Ishan Pandey’s superb half-century and Avinash Bohara’s influential bowling earlier in the match. Ishan hammered 56 off 35 balls with nine fours and a six. Despite losing openers Josh Brown (0) and Chris Lynn (1) early, a stabilizing 92-run stand off 74 balls between Binod Bhandari (42 off 49) and Ishan rescued the innings.

Captain Dipendra Singh Airee scored 10*, while Harmeet Singh’s explosive 25* off just 10 balls—featuring three consecutive sixes off Lalit Rajbanshi—finished the chase with ease.

Earlier, Janakpur posted 145/8 in their 20 overs. Sanjay Krishnamurthy top-scored with a fighting 50 off 37 balls, hitting four fours and two sixes. Lefty Eaton contributed 39 off 33, but frequent wickets prevented Janakpur from pushing the total higher.

Sudurpaschim’s bowling attack shone, led by Avinash Bohara’s brilliant 4-wicket haul. Scott Kuggeleijn was equally impressive, taking 3 wickets while conceding only 22 runs in his four overs. Captain Dipendra added one wicket.

With this win, Sudurpaschim continue their dominant unbeaten run, while Janakpur’s playoff hopes grow increasingly slim after their fourth consecutive defeat.