Kathmandu, Dec. 10 -- Three days is a long time in franchise cricket. On December 6, the unbeaten Sudurpaschim Royals looked mortal, humbled by Biratnagar Kings in a defeat that left 49 balls remaining. On Tuesday, however, the Royals didn't just avenge that loss; they dismantled the Kings to cement a legacy.

With a resounding 77-run victory in Qualifier 1, Sudurpaschim became the first franchise in the history of the 'Festival of Himalayas' to reach the Nepal Premier League final in consecutive seasons. In doing so, they have silenced the doubters who questioned their momentum and reasserted their status as the league's premier powerhouse.

The Royals did not post a total that was too different from their previous encounter with the Kin...