Kathmandu Gorkhas won the toss and elected to field first against defending champions Janakpur Bolts, marking the opening fixture of the second season of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) on Monday.

The Nepal Police and the Armed Police Force have deployed more than 1,500 security personnel to ensure safety at the TU International Cricket Ground, according to Kathmandu Police Range.

Security teams were mobilised from Sunday night with a comprehensive plan in place, said Superintendent of Police Pawan Kumar Bhattarai. “A total of 1,223 police personnel have been assigned for this event, covering investigation, traffic and CCTV surveillance duties,” he said.

In coordination with the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), 40 CCTV cameras have been installed targeting the match, and police will also use drones for aerial monitoring. The main gate has been reserved for players and VIPs, while spectators will enter through three other gates, authorities confirmed. For the opening match alone, the Armed Police Force has deployed 245 officers.

Eight franchise teams are participating in the tournament. After the league stage, the top four sides will enter the playoffs, with Qualifier 1 scheduled for December 9, Eliminator on December 10, and Qualifier 2 on December 11. The final is slated for December 12.

The TU ground, leased by CAN from Tribhuvan University, has already hosted several national and international fixtures and remains at the centre of Nepal’s cricket aspirations as night matches and enhanced infrastructure continue to draw growing audiences.