NPL opener: Defending champions Lumbini beat Sudurpashchim for winning start

In the opening match of the third edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL), defending champions Lumbini Lions got off to a winning start by beating Sudurpashchim Royals. Sudurpashchim were runners-up in the previous edition.

In the day-night match held under floodlights at the TU Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, Sudurpashchim, batting first, were bowled out for just 87 runs. Lumbini were then set a target of 88 runs for victory.

Sudurpashchim's batting lineup collapsed due to lethal bowling from Lumbini's Sher Malla and Kishor Mahato. Sudurpashchim lost 9 wickets for just 70 runs after Kishor Mahato took two wickets off consecutive balls.

Supporters of both teams turned up at the ground to watch the tournament's first match, which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Balen Shah.