Questions over NPL rule compliance after Sudurpashchim-Biratnagar match, fine discussed

Questions have arisen over compliance with competition rules and the decision-making process in match organization following Saturday's Nepal Premier League match between Sudurpashchim Royals and Biratnagar Kings.

Earlier, the match between Lumbini Lions and Chitwan Rhinos, scheduled for 1 pm, was called off due to rain, with both teams sharing one point each.

The second match of the day, scheduled for 5 pm at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, started around four hours late because of a wet outfield.

After the ground staff prepared the field and the weather cleared in the evening, match officials decided to play a five-over match. The toss, agreed upon by both captains, was set for 7:25 pm.

When Biratnagar's captain Sandeep Lamichhane arrived for the toss, Sudurpashchim's captain Dipendra Singh Airee did not come to the ground. Sudurpashchim had initially refused to play, citing risk to players' safety on the wet field. The team took to the field only after the match referee's decision.

In NPL's eighth match, Biratnagar defeated Sudurpashchim by 35 runs, securing their first win after two consecutive losses.

Questions have also been raised as to why the opposing team was not awarded two points instead, given that the team that initially refused to play did so even after the ground had become playable. After the match, Sudurpashchim posted a sarcastic reaction on Facebook, saying they played for the sake of the spectators even though the ground was not fit for play.