Pokhara Avengers endured a difficult start to their Nepal Premier League (NPL) campaign in Kirtipur, suffering a convincing seven-wicket defeat at the hands of Far West Royals. Despite the comprehensive setback in their opening fixture, Bangladesh all-rounder Mahedi Hasan remains resolute, taking heart from the experience of playing alongside veteran campaigner Shakib Al Hasan as the team sets its sights on an immediate turnaround.
Electing to bat first, Pokhara Avengers laboured to a modest total of 145 for 7 in their allotted 20 overs. The target proved well within reach for Far West Royals, who coasted to victory with 19 balls to spare, losing just three wickets in the process. The hefty margin of defeat has dealt an early blow to Pokhara’s net run rate, which currently languishes at -1.542, placing them seventh in the eight-team tournament standings.
Despite the uninspiring opening result, Mahedi struck an optimistic note regarding the team’s prospects. Reflecting on the match on social media, the off-spinning all-rounder voiced confidence that the squad possesses the quality required to revive their campaign, writing, “InshaAllah, much better things await us ahead.”
A notable moment of quality during the encounter came courtesy of Shakib, whose tactical composure and sharp instinct came to the fore. The seasoned all-rounder successfully overturned an on-field decision by Bangladeshi umpire Masudur Rahman Mukul, using the Decision Review System (DRS) to dismiss Far West Royals batter Brandon McMullen via a crucial leg-before-wicket verdict.
Although Shakib has not featured for the Bangladesh national team since October 2024, his active involvement in domestic T20 competitions around the globe remains undiminished. Having previously showcased his skills in prominent tournaments such as the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and the Lanka Premier League (LPL), his presence in the NPL brings invaluable experience to the Pokhara dressing room.
For younger teammates like Mahedi, sharing the field with one of world cricket’s most established all-rounders offers a significant learning opportunity. Sharing a photograph alongside Shakib from the Kirtipur ground, Mahedi expressed his gratitude for the senior player’s mentorship. He noted that playing alongside Shakib is always a pleasure, describing every shared moment on the field as an invaluable chance to absorb knowledge, refine his craft, and develop into a more complete cricketer.
With each franchise set to contest seven matches during the league phase of the tournament, Pokhara Avengers retain ample scope to rebuild their momentum and climb the table. The team will look to convert their lessons into points when they return to action at Kirtipur on 1 November, facing Janakpur Bolts in a vital encounter scheduled for 4:45 PM Bangladesh Standard Time.
