Lanka Premier League Announces Player Draft and New Franchise for 2026 Season
LPL Abandons Auction for Player Draft
Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has officially announced that the sixth season of the Lanka Premier League will not feature an auction, as reported by ESPNcricinfo. Instead, a player draft is scheduled for March 22, where franchises will have the opportunity to select both local and international players for the upcoming season of Sri Lanka's premier domestic T20 tournament.
Rescheduling of the Tournament
Initially planned for early December 2025, the sixth season of the Lanka Premier League has been postponed to prepare venues for the 2026 ICC Men's T20 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Sri Lanka and India. The tournament is now set to take place from August 8, following a rescheduling from its original date of July 8.
Introduction of a Sixth Franchise
In a recent announcement, the Lanka Premier League revealed the addition of a sixth franchise for the upcoming season. This expansion signifies a significant milestone in the league's growth, enhancing its reputation as one of the fastest-growing T20 tournaments in the region and a vital part of the global cricket calendar.
Excitement for the Upcoming Season
With a busy international cricket schedule approaching, the LPL aims to capitalize on the excitement, promising a vibrant and energetic tournament. The sixth edition is expected to feature more matches, a greater number of stars, and an emphasis on local talent, all presented in the dynamic style that has made the league a staple in Sri Lanka's sports landscape.
'Universe Boss' Chris Gayle as Brand Ambassador
The league's evolution is highlighted by the involvement of Chris Gayle, known as the 'Universe Boss', who will serve as the official Brand Ambassador. His dynamic presence aligns with the league's ambition to grow bigger and better.
Insights from Tournament Officials
Samantha Dodanwela, the Tournament Director, expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming season, stating, "The Lanka Premier League embodies the essence of Sri Lankan cricket—passion, skill, and entertainment. With the expansion to six teams, the 2026 edition is set to be our most ambitious yet. The July-August timeframe is perfect for showcasing top-tier cricket during a time of heightened T20 enthusiasm in the country."
The 2026 season will include six franchises: Colombo, Dambulla, Galle, Jaffna, Kandy, and a new team to be announced soon. These teams will compete in key national locations leading up to the playoffs.
A Look Back at the League's Journey
Since its launch in 2020, the Lanka Premier League has successfully hosted five seasons, quickly establishing itself as one of the most thrilling T20 tournaments in South Asia. The Jaffna franchise has been particularly successful, securing four titles, while other teams continue to strive for regional supremacy, ensuring a competitive atmosphere.