Basir Ahamad delivered a match-winning all-round performance as Tribhuwan Army Club defeated Nepal Police Club by 22 runs in Match 3 of the Men's PM Cup at Lower Mulpani Cricket Ground, Kathmandu, on Sunday.
The match was reduced to 47 overs per side after a delayed start caused by a wet outfield, and Army made the better use of the conditions after electing to bat first. They recovered from early trouble through a vital middle-order stand between Bhim Sharki and Basir, who added 82 runs for the fifth wicket. Bhim made 62 off 65 balls, while Basir went on to compile a superb 100 off 86 deliveries, hitting eight fours and two sixes, as Army posted 243 for 8.
Nepal Police shared the wickets around, with Sagar Dhakal and Rashid Khan taking two each. Lalit Rajbanshi and Sarwan Yadav also chipped in, but Basir's century gave Army the momentum they needed in a shortened game.
Police began their chase positively despite losing Dinesh Kharel in the first over. Shankar Rana made 46, and Rashid Khan kept them in the hunt with a fighting 60 off 82 balls. The pair stitched together a 100-run stand that briefly swung the chase back in Police's favour, while captain Aarif Sheikh added 38 to keep hopes alive.
But Army kept striking at key moments. Naren Saud was the standout bowler with 3 for 57, while Aakash Chand picked up 2 for 38. Basir capped his day with 1 for 33, and Nepal Police were eventually bowled out for 221 in 45.3 overs.
Basir was named Player of the Match for his century and crucial breakthrough with the ball as Army secured a 22-run win and two points.
