Four teams confirmed for playoffs: Who will compete against whom?

KATHMANDU: The four teams advancing to the playoffs of the Siddharth Bank Nepal Premier League (NPL) have been confirmed.

On Monday, Sudurpashchim Royals defeated Karnali Yaks by 6 wickets, finalizing the four teams for the playoffs.

Despite the loss, Karnali Yaks secured a playoff spot. Sudurpashchim Royals achieved victory in 12.2 overs, but had Kathmandu Gurkhas been in the top four, they would have progressed to the playoffs.

However, Sudurpashchim Royals, who scored 72 runs in 12.2 overs losing three wickets, allowed Karnali to stay ahead in net run rate, ensuring Karnali Yaks’s spot in the playoffs.

Sudurpashchim Royals, Janakpur Bolts, and Chitwan Rhinos had already qualified for the playoffs.

In the league phase, Sudurpashchim Royals secured the top spot with 12 points after winning 6 out of 7 games. Janakpur Bolts finished second with 10 points, winning 5 out of 7 matches.

Chitwan Rhinos, with 8 points, took third place, while Karnali Yaks, also with 8 points, finished fourth.

Kathmandu Gurkhas, who also earned 8 points, were eliminated due to a lower net run rate.

Meanwhile, Lumbini Lions, Pokhara Avengers, and Biratnagar Kings had already been eliminated before their final matches.

The first qualifier will feature Sudurpashchim Royals against Janakpur Bolts.

The third and fourth-placed teams, Chitwan Rhinos and Karnali Yaks, will face off in the eliminator.

On Wednesday morning, the eliminator will take place, followed by the first qualifier in the afternoon.

The winner of the eliminator will progress to the second qualifier, while the loser will be eliminated.

The winner of the first qualifier will secure a spot in the final, while the loser will advance to the second qualifier.

The second qualifier will be held on Thursday, and the final will take place on Saturday.