Kathmandu: Defending champions Lumbini Lions got off to a flying start in the third edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL), defeating runners-up Sudurpaschim Royals by seven wickets in the curtain-raiser at the TU Cricket Stadium in Kirtipur on Monday.

After winning the toss and electing to field, the Lions bowled out Dipendra Singh Airee’s side for a paltry 87 runs in 17.2 overs, with Kishor Mahato claiming four wickets and Sher Malla taking three.

In the run chase, Australian opener D’Arcy Short and Aasif Sheikh made light work of the target, scoring 40 off 18 balls and 32 off 25 balls, respectively, as the Lions reached the target in just 9.5 overs, losing three wickets.

Short and Aasif laid the foundation for victory with a 71-run opening stand. Short struck four boundaries and three sixes, while Aasif hit two boundaries and two sixes.

Niroshan Dickwella was bowled for seven by Royals captain Dipendra Singh Airee, while Anil Kharel claimed two wickets.

Dipendra top-scored for the Royals with 27 off 23 balls, while Anil Kharel remained unbeaten on 15 off 26 balls. Opener Saif Zaib, who scored 13 off 14 balls, was the only other Royals batter to reach double figures.