KATHMANDU: The third edition of Nepal Premier League (NPL) has kicked off at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur, Kathmandu from today.

In the opening match of the tournament, the defending champions Lumbini Lions and the runners-up Sudurpaschim Royals will compete. Lumbini won the toss and will bowl first.

Sudurpaschim is looking to avenge its loss in the last edition while Lumbini will be looking to repeat last year’s result.

Lumbini is led by Rohit Kumar Poudel and Sudurpaschim Dipendra Singh Airee.

The tournament organized by the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) will run till November 5. Eight franchise teams are participating in the tournament. The winning team will get Rs 1.5 crore. The runner-up will get Rs 80 lakh, while the third-placed team will get Rs 40 lakh. Similarly, the consolation prize winner will have to settle for Rs 30 lakh.