KATHMANDU: Janakpur Bolts faced a heavy defeat to Sudurpaschim Royals in their Nepal Premier League (NPL) match on Wednesday, bringing an end to their unbeaten record.

Set a target of 124 runs by Sudurpaschim at the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, Janakpur’s chase faltered badly as they were bowled out for a mere 51 runs in just 12.1 overs, losing by a massive 72-run margin.

This defeat marked the end of Janakpur’s unbeaten run in the competition.

Sudurpaschim, who batted first, also struggled with the bat but managed to make a strong recovery through their bowlers, securing their first win over Janakpur.

The Royals posted a modest total of 123/9 in 20 overs.

In reply, Janakpur’s batting collapsed under pressure. They could not recover from early losses and were all out for just 51 runs. Joshua was the top scorer for Janakpur with 13 runs, but no other batsman managed to reach double digits.

With this win, Sudurpaschim moves level with Janakpur on 8 points in the standings, but they now hold the advantage due to a superior run rate.

Earlier in the competition, Sudurpaschim had triumphed over Biratnagar Kings by 90 runs, Kathmandu Gurkhas by 73 runs, and Lumbini Lions by 45 runs, though they suffered a surprise defeat to Chitwan Rhinos by 33 runs.

Janakpur, on the other hand, had lost to Biratnagar Kings and Karnali Yaks, both by 8 wickets, but had narrowly beaten Pokhara Avengers and Lumbini Lions.