NSL: Number of teams reduced to seven

Sporting Ilam De Mechi and Birgunj United, which played in the second edition, will not participate this time.

The first season had seven teams, while the second expanded to nine. However, only Jhapa FC from the three new teams added in the second edition will continue.

Defending champions Kathmandu RayZrs, second-edition winners Lalitpur City FC, and two-time runners-up Dhangadhi FC will compete again. Chitwan FC, Pokhara Thunders, and Butwal Lumbini FC are also set for their third consecutive season.

The tournament, organized by Nepal Sports & Event Management (NSEM), will kick off on Febr 22.

Each team can have a minimum of 22 and a maximum of 23 players.

NSEM Managing Director Shreyansh Karki stated that while new teams showed interest in joining, the organizers decided not to expand this year. “Teams that have opted out will not be included again. There is a possibility of adding new teams next year,” he said.