Nepal, Oct. 26 -- Prime Minister Balendra Shah has said the Nepal Premier League (NPL) has established itself as a major celebration of Nepali sports within just a few years.

He also wished the third edition of the tournament, which begins today, success in a message posted on social media.

"I warmly welcome all international players and commentators who have arrived to participate in the NPL. I extend my best wishes to all Nepali players, the organisers and the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) for the success of this wonderful sporting festival," Shah wrote.

The opening match of the NPL is scheduled to begin at 5 pm today. Defending champions Lumbini Lions will face runners up Sudurpaschim Royals, who finished second in the previou...