Arjun’s record ton, Deepak's five-for take Pokhara into final

Kathmandu - Arjun Kumal's record-breaking century and Deepak Dumre’s five-wicket haul powered Pokhara Metropolitan City to a 44-run win over Birgunj Metropolitan City in the PL Singh Memorial T20 Cup at TU International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur, on Friday.

Pokhara, who won the toss and elected to bat first, posted 177/8 in their 20 overs. Opener Arjun produced the standout innings of the tournament, scoring 105 off 61 balls with 11 fours and five sixes. It was the first century of the PL Singh Memorial T20 Cup.

Cibrin Shrestha supported him with 30 off 22 balls, while Sandeep Khatri Chhetri added 14 runs as Pokhara built a strong total.

For Birgunj, Aashik Baitha and Abhishek Karki picked up two wickets each.

In reply, Birgunj were bowled out for 133 in 19.2 overs. Mayan Yadav top-scored with 40 off 20 balls, while Arniko Yadav made 32 off 25. Anil Sah added 14 and Pawan Sarraf struck 12 off eight balls, but Birgunj could not recover after losing wickets at regular intervals.

Deepak led Pokhara’s bowling attack with an excellent spell of 5/20 in four overs. Aprajit Poudel took 2/30, while Sudip Aryal and Sandeep KC claimed one wicket each.

Arjun was named Player of the Match for his match-winning century as Pokhara secured a place in the final, where they will face Kathmandu Metropolitan City.