Third edition of Nepal Premier League begins today with DRS and ICC recognition

Kathmandu, October 26, 2026 — The third edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) begins today at the TU International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, with defending champions Lumbini Lions set to face last season’s runners-up Sudurpashchim Royals in the opening match at 4:30 pm.

The tournament will run until November 21 and feature eight teams: Lumbini Lions, Sudurpashchim Royals, Biratnagar Kings, Chitwan Rhinos, Karnali Yaks, Janakpur Bolts, Pokhara Avengers and Kathmandu Gorkhas. The schedule will shift to two matches per day from Tuesday.

This edition introduces the Decision Review System (DRS) and has received official recognition from the International Cricket Council (ICC). According to the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), implementing DRS is expected to cost between Rs 15 million and Rs 20 million.

With ICC recognition, all NPL matches will count as official Twenty20 games, and players’ performances will be included in their official career statistics.

CAN Treasurer Padam Khadka said the tournament is expected to generate total revenue of Rs 1.5 billion.

The prize money has also increased this season. The winning team will receive Rs 15 million, while the runner-up will earn Rs 8 million. The teams finishing third and fourth will receive Rs 4 million and Rs 3 million, respectively. In previous editions, the champions received Rs 10 million.