Defending champions Lumbini Lions began Nepal Premier League 2026 with a commanding seven-wicket victory over Sudurpaschim Royals at the TU International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur on October 26.
Sudurpaschim were dismissed for 87 in 17.2 overs before Lumbini completed the chase in just 9.5 overs.
D’Arcy Short and Kishore Mahato Shine
Lumbini’s bowlers dominated the opening innings.
Kishore Mahato claimed four wickets for 28 runs, while Sher Malla returned impressive figures of 3/11.
Sudurpaschim captain Dipendra Singh Airee top-scored with 27 from 23 deliveries.
Chasing a modest target, Australian batter D’Arcy Short attacked immediately, scoring 40 from 18 balls with four fours and three sixes.
Aasif Sheikh supported him with 32 from 25 deliveries.
Their attacking partnership put Lumbini firmly in control.
Captain Rohit Paudel finished the match with a boundary as Lumbini completed a comfortable victory.
The result gives the defending champions a strong start to their Nepal Premier League title defence.
