Kathmandu, Nov. 1 -- One of the most striking features of the opening six matches of the Nepal Premier League's third season has been that every Player of the Match award has gone to a Nepali player.

That was not the case in the first two seasons, when overseas players dominated the individual awards in the opening games. Last season, Nepali players were largely overshadowed for a spell.

Cricket analysts see the growing influence of Nepali players as a positive sign. Among those who have stood out this season so far are Sher Malla of Lumbini Lions, Kamal Singh Airee of Chitwan Rhinos, Unish Singh Thakuri and Sompal Kami of Karnali Yaks, Dipendra Singh Airee of Sudurpaschim Royals and Rahul Yadav of Janakpur Bolts. Kami's performance in ...