On Monday, Karnali Shivraj defeated Sagarmatha Smashers 3-2 in sets during the Nepal Volleyball League (NVL), maintaining their top position with eight points after their third consecutive win. Annapurna Spiker Kings claimed third place by beating Madhesh Warriors 3-1, accumulating six points. Madhesh Warriors remain in fifth place, having lost three straight matches with only one point from three games.
The intense match at the NVL took place at the National Sports Council’s covered hall in Tripureshwor. Karnali Shivraj triumphed over Sagarmatha Smashers in a competitive five-set encounter, eventually securing the victory.
Karnali took an early lead by comfortably winning the first set 25-16. However, Sagarmatha fought back in the second set, narrowly winning 25-23 to level the match. In the third set, Karnali edged out a 25-23 win to move ahead 2-1. Sagarmatha then responded by claiming the fourth set 25-19, pushing the match to a decisive fifth set. Karnali showcased excellent performance in the final set, winning 15-9 to seal the match.
Captain and marquee player Pahal Gahtaraj of Karnali was named Player of the Match, scoring a match-high 22 points. Kudrasaw contributed 18 points for the winning side. On the Sagarmatha team, Fakhar Uddin scored 21 points and Aimal Khan added 20, but their efforts were not enough to clinch the win.
Later that day, Annapurna Spiker Kings secured their second consecutive win by defeating Madhesh Warriors 3-1 in sets. The set scores were 25-16, 29-31, 25-22, and 25-21 in favor of Annapurna. With two wins from three matches, Annapurna rose to third place with six points. Uranbayar Munkhbayar stood out with an impressive performance and was named Player of the Match after scoring a tournament-best 26 points.
Madhesh Warriors suffered their third straight loss. Having secured only one point from three games, they remain in fifth place, decreasing their chances of breaking into the top three. Madhesh Warriors still have matches to play against Khaptad Falcons and Karnali Shivraj.
Upcoming matches on Tuesday include Khaptad Falcons vs. Madhesh Warriors, and Kathmandu Reds vs. Sagarmatha Smashers. The tournament is organized by Kedia Group with support from the Nepal Volleyball Association, featuring six competing teams.
