Coimbatore, June 4 -- IPL GT star Shahrukh Khan-led Lyca Kovai Kings will lock horns with R Ashwin's Dindigul Dragons in a rematch of last year's final to kickstart the 9th edition of the Shriram Capital-Tamil Nadu Premier League at the Sri Ramakrishna College of Arts and Science Cricket Ground here on Thursday night.

Dindigul denied Kovai Kings a hat-trick of crowns (joint-winners in 2022), as Ashwin turned in a splendid all-round performance in a low-scoring contest to help his side secure their maiden title.

Meanwhile, Chepauk Super Gillies, the most-decorated franchise with four trophies, will begin their campaign on Friday against iDream Tiruppur Tamizhans in what is India's longest-running regional T20 league.

Adding excitement t...