KIRTIPUR, October 26: Defending champions Lumbini Lions made an impressive start to their Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2026 campaign, bowling out Sudurpaschim Royals for just 87 runs in 17.2 overs in the tournament's opening match at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur on Monday.
Lumbini's bowling attack delivered a disciplined performance, keeping the Royals under constant pressure and preventing them from building meaningful partnerships. The defending champions shared the wickets across their bowling unit, with Kishor Mahato and Sher Malla leading the charge.
Mahato was the standout performer, claiming four wickets for 22 runs, while Sher Malla provided excellent support with three wickets for just 11 runs. Shadley van Schalkwyk and Tilak Bhandari picked up one wicket each, while captain Rohit Paudel also contributed with a wicket.
Sudurpaschim struggled to establish momentum throughout their innings. Captain Dipendra Singh Airee offered some resistance with 27 runs off 23 deliveries, but the rest of the batting lineup failed to provide the partnerships needed to post a competitive total.
The Royals eventually lost their final wicket at 87 in 17.2 overs, leaving Lumbini with a target of 88 runs to begin their title defence.
Lumbini Lions Bowling Performance
- Kishor Mahato – 4/22
- Sher Malla – 3/11
- Shadley van Schalkwyk – 1/19
- Tilak Bhandari – 1/18
The opening fixture carries additional significance as it is a rematch of the previous season's final. Lumbini Lions defeated Sudurpaschim Royals by six wickets in the 2025 final to claim their maiden NPL championship.
The Royals, who have finished as runners-up in both previous editions, were hoping for a stronger start to their third consecutive campaign. However, Lumbini's bowling performance has put them under immediate pressure.
With only 88 runs required for victory, the defending champions will now look to complete a comfortable chase and begin their NPL 2026 title defence with a win.
The third edition of the Nepal Premier League runs from October 26 to November 21, featuring eight franchises competing for the championship at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur.