Prime Minister Balen Shah will inaugurate the third edition of the Nepal Premier League, which begins today, 26 October 2026, at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur.

Deepa Dahal, the prime minister’s press and research adviser, confirmed Shah’s role in opening the tournament. Ahead of the event, Shah extended best wishes to Nepali cricket on social media. He described the NPL as “the biggest sporting competition in Nepal” and noted that “in just a few years, it has developed into a major sporting festival.”

“A warm welcome to all international players and commentators who have come to participate in the league. Best wishes to the Nepali players, organizers, and the Cricket Association of Nepal for this wonderful competition. May Nepali cricket remain immortal,” Shah said.

The opening match pits defending champions Lumbini Lions against last season’s runners-up Sudurpaschim Royals. According to OnlineKhabar, the match is scheduled to begin at 4:30 pm. Other reports list a 5:00 pm start; fans should check the latest official fixture confirmation for the exact time.

The opener carries immediate weight. Lumbini Lions won the second edition, while Sudurpaschim Royals finished as runners-up in both previous seasons. The fixture is a rematch of the 2025 final. Janakpur Bolts claimed the inaugural title in 2024. The presence of the prime minister at the start of the third edition underscores the league’s rapid rise as Nepal’s leading domestic T20 competition and a platform that now routinely attracts international players and commentators.

All matches are scheduled at the TU International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. The opening ceremony and first ball today mark the start of a full season that will determine the new champions on 21 November.