Vijay Shankar to Represent India in Lanka Premier League 2026
Vijay Shankar Joins Kandy Royals for LPL 2026
Indian all-rounder Vijay Shankar is poised to be the sole representative from India in the upcoming Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2026, having been signed by Kandy Royals. Meanwhile, Sri Lankan cricketer Avishka Fernando was the top overall selection in the Season 6 Draft, as teams finalized their rosters for this year's tournament.
Draft Highlights and Team Enhancements
The draft, which took place ahead of the competition scheduled from July 17 to August 8, allowed all five franchises to enhance their teams with a mix of seasoned international players, promising overseas talent, and top Sri Lankan cricketers. This sets the stage for what is anticipated to be one of the most competitive seasons in the league's history.
The defending champions, SC Jaffna Kings, kicked off the draft by selecting Avishka Fernando as their first pick. They further strengthened their lineup by acquiring experienced all-rounder David Wiese, Afghanistan's Ibrahim Zadran, and Nepal's Sandeep Lamichhane, joining marquee players Dunit Wellalage and Bhanuka Rajapaksa in their quest to retain the title.
Vijay Shankar's participation is particularly noteworthy for Indian cricket enthusiasts, as he previously represented India in the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup. He will be joining a strong Kandy Royals team that includes Moeen Ali, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Angelo Mathews, along with new additions Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Daniel Sams, Kusal Perera, and Nuwan Thushara.
Team Updates from Other Franchises
Colombo Kaps have also enhanced their squad by signing international player Mujeeb Ur Rahman, complementing local icons Jimmy Neesham, Kusal Mendis, and Kamindu Mendis. Dambulla Sixers have added match-winners Maheesh Theekshana and Fazalhaq Farooqi to their roster, alongside marquee signings Dinesh Chandimal and Dushmantha Chameera. Galle Gallants have strengthened their team with Sri Lanka's captain Charith Asalanka and South African batter Rassie van der Dussen, joining marquee players Dasun Shanaka and Eshan Malinga ahead of the new season.
LPL's Expanding Global Reach
The player draft attracted considerable international attention, with over 650 overseas cricketers from 21 nations registering for selection. This highlights the increasing global interest in the Lanka Premier League, establishing it as one of the leading T20 leagues in the region.
Samantha Dodanwela, the Tournament Director, noted that the quality of players acquired by the franchises through the draft signifies the league's ongoing growth and competitiveness. "The teams showcase an exciting mix of international experience, emerging talent, and some of Sri Lanka's best cricketers, ensuring a thrilling tournament for fans," she stated.
Anil Mohan Sankhdhar, the Founder and CEO of IPG Group, which holds the official rights to the LPL, expressed satisfaction with the draft's response. He remarked, "With registrations from 21 countries and the inclusion of several accomplished international players alongside Sri Lanka's top talents, the league is solidifying its status as a premier T20 competition in the region."
Tournament Format and Schedule
The sixth edition of the Lanka Premier League will feature five teams: SC Jaffna Kings, Kandy Royals, Colombo Kaps, Dambulla Sixers, and Galle Gallants. They will compete in a double round-robin format, followed by playoffs. The tournament is set to commence on July 17 and will conclude with the final match on August 8.