KATHMANDU, October 26: Prime Minister Balen Shah is set to inaugurate the third edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL), with the country's biggest domestic T20 cricket competition beginning on Monday at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur.
The Prime Minister's participation in the opening ceremony was confirmed by his press and research adviser, Deepa Dahal. Shah had also extended his best wishes to Nepali cricket ahead of the tournament through a social media message, highlighting the NPL's growing popularity and its contribution to the country's sporting landscape.
Describing the NPL as Nepal's biggest sporting competition, Shah noted how the league has developed into a major sporting festival within just a few years.
He also welcomed the international players and commentators arriving in Nepal for the competition and extended his wishes to Nepali cricketers, tournament organisers and the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN).
"May Nepali cricket remain immortal," Shah said in his message.
The Prime Minister's presence at the opening ceremony adds further significance to the third edition of the tournament, which has quickly established itself as one of Nepal's biggest sporting events. The league has attracted international cricketers, overseas coaching staff and commentators, bringing greater attention to Nepali franchise cricket.
The opening fixture will feature defending champions Lumbini Lions against Sudurpaschim Royals, the runners-up from the previous two editions. The match is particularly interesting as it brings together the same two sides that contested the 2025 final, where Lumbini Lions secured the championship with a six-wicket victory.
Sudurpaschim Royals, meanwhile, will be looking to overcome their previous disappointments and begin the new campaign with a strong performance against the defending champions.
The NPL has already produced two different champions in its first two editions. Janakpur Bolts won the inaugural season in 2024, while Lumbini Lions claimed the title in 2025. With eight franchises competing in Season 3, the tournament promises another competitive race for the championship.
All matches of the 2026 edition are scheduled to take place at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, with the competition running from October 26 to November 21.
The opening ceremony and the first match will mark the beginning of a month-long cricketing celebration, bringing together Nepal's leading domestic players and several internationally recognised names.
With the Prime Minister attending the inauguration and international stars featuring across the participating teams, NPL Season 3 is set to receive significant attention from cricket fans across Nepal.
The tournament will conclude on November 21, when the two best-performing sides compete for the NPL 2026 championship.