Kathmandu, Oct. 28 -- Sudurpaschim Royals take on Pokhara Avengers in the third edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) on Wednesday, with Pokhara looking to make a winning start to their campaign.

Pokhara are playing their first match of the tournament, while Sudurpaschim are seeking to bounce back from a seven-wicket defeat by defending champions Lumbini Lions in their opening game. Sudurpaschim were bowled out for just 87 runs on Monday.

Sudurpaschim have reached the final in both previous editions but are yet to win the title. Pokhara, meanwhile, are the only team to have missed the playoffs in both seasons.

Pokhara, captained by Kushal Bhurtel, have former world No 1 all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan among their overseas recruits. The...