Punjab Launches Exciting Sher-e-Punjab T20 League to Boost Local Cricket Talent

Punjab is set to launch the Sher-e-Punjab T20 League, a new cricket tournament featuring six franchise teams and prominent local players. Scheduled from August 30 to September 13 at the PCA Stadium in Mohali, the league aims to provide a platform for emerging talent while promoting sports as a means to combat drug abuse. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann emphasized the importance of sports in youth engagement and announced a pool of over 450 players for the auction. This initiative marks a significant step in enhancing Punjab's cricketing landscape.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 8, 2026, 23:30 IST

Introduction of Sher-e-Punjab T20 League

Punjab is gearing up for its very own T20 cricket tournament, as Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann announced the Sher-e-Punjab T20 League on Saturday. This league will feature six franchise teams and showcase prominent cricketers from Punjab, including Shubman Gill, Arshdeep Singh, Abhishek Sharma, Prabhsimran Singh, Ramandeep Singh, and Gurnoor Brar.

Tournament Details and Player Participation

Scheduled to take place from August 30 to September 13 at the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) Stadium in Mohali, the league will see over 450 players from Punjab entering the auction on August 9. This initiative aims to provide a significant platform for emerging talent alongside seasoned players.

Government's Commitment to Sports

During the announcement, CM Mann emphasized Punjab's rich history of producing talented athletes and reiterated the government's commitment to engaging youth in sports. He also pointed out that sports play a crucial role in combating drug abuse in the state.

Franchise Teams and Player Representation

Mann referred to the league as 'Punjab’s own IPL', highlighting that it will consist of six franchise teams. Notable players will represent various teams: Shubman Gill for Fazilka Falcons, Arshdeep Singh for Ludhiana Lions, Abhishek Sharma for Amritsar Soormaaz, Prabhsimran Singh for Jalandhar Warriors, Ramandeep Singh for Mohali Kings, and Gurnoor Brar for Bathinda Royals.

Focus on Local Talent

The CM stated, 'Punjab is the backbone of the Indian cricket team, with 21 players from the state participating in the IPL. All players in the Punjab Cricket League will hail from Punjab.' He mentioned that a pool of over 450 players has been established for the auction, including notable names like Anmolpreet Singh, Mayank Markande, and Naman Dhir.

Benefits for Young Players

Mann expressed that the league would offer young players invaluable experience on a significant platform, allowing them to learn alongside established cricketers. He reiterated the government's comprehensive campaign to eradicate drugs, emphasizing that sports are a key tool in this effort.

Ongoing Sports Initiatives

The CM also mentioned the annual 'Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan' sporting event and the development of over 3,100 sports grounds to foster a sporting culture in Punjab. Additionally, the state will host the Hockey Asian Champions Trophy for the first time in October-November, marking a significant milestone for local sports.

Honoring the League's Launch

On this occasion, Punjab Cricket Association officials presented a T-shirt featuring the league's logo to CM Mann as a gesture of honor. Indian cricketers Abhishek Sharma, Arshdeep Singh, Prabhsimran Singh, and Ramandeep Singh also gifted a cricket bat and ball to Mann as a sign of respect.