Zaheer Khan Takes Ownership of Jaffna Kings in Lanka Premier League
Zaheer Khan Joins Franchise Ownership in LPL
Former Indian fast bowler Zaheer Khan has ventured into franchise ownership within Sri Lankan cricket. His partnership with businessman Nagendra Siddoutam has led to the acquisition of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) franchise, Jaffna Kings, by their Stockholm-based sports ownership group, Anchor Sports AB.
Rebranding and New Beginnings
With this acquisition, the franchise will be rebranded as Anchor Jaffna Kings. This marks a significant transition for the most successful team in LPL history, following the termination of its previous ownership last month. The takeover occurred shortly after Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) and LPL rights holders Innovation Production Group (IPG) placed the franchise under emergency regulatory control due to the previous ownership's termination on July 23.
Anchor Sports' Global Expansion
The inclusion of Jaffna Kings into Anchor Sports AB's expanding global multi-club network is noteworthy. As stated in an IPG media release, the group's international portfolio already features the Antwerp Anchors in Belgium's European T20 Premier League and the Vancouver Anchors teams competing in Canada's Super60 league.
Zaheer's Enthusiasm for Sri Lankan Cricket
Zaheer expressed his excitement about this new role in Sri Lankan cricket, stating, "I've always admired the calibre, innovation, and variety of bowling talent that comes out of Sri Lanka. It's a country I've visited and competed in, holding many fond memories. Being part of Sri Lankan cricket as an owner is something I'm genuinely thrilled about, and I can't wait to get started with the Anchor Jaffna Kings."
Vision for the Future
Nagendra Siddoutam, co-founder of Anchor Sports AB, emphasized that this franchise aligns with their long-term vision of creating a connected global sporting network while maintaining strong local identities. He remarked, "This is a significant step for us. Sri Lanka has a rich cricketing heritage, and the LPL has quickly established itself as a well-run, competitive league. The Anchor Jaffna Kings will naturally extend our global vision, rooted in local communities while being part of an international network. We look forward to investing in the Anchor Jaffna Kings and contributing to the league's growth."
Franchise's Turbulent History
The Jaffna Kings franchise has seen several ownership changes since the LPL's inception. Most recently, it was owned by Sports Commune, co-owned by former India Under-19 cricketer Manjot Kalra and entrepreneur Mayank Goel. This ownership ended following Kalra's arrest on match-fixing charges in July, while Goel's current status remains unknown.
Prior to Sports Commune, the franchise was under the Lyca Group from 2021 to 2025, and a consortium led by Arnold Anandan and Rahul Sood managed the team during the inaugural LPL season. Each ownership period ended due to financial difficulties, prompting SLC and IPG to take control during the ongoing season.
Despite these challenges, the Jaffna Kings have consistently been a benchmark of success in the Lanka Premier League, winning four out of five completed editions and currently leading the league standings to qualify for the playoffs.
Positive Reception from the League
LPL Tournament Director Samantha Dodanwela welcomed Zaheer's involvement, stating that his presence would greatly benefit Sri Lankan cricket. "Having an owner of Zaheer Khan's calibre involved with the Anchor Jaffna Kings is a real boost for the league. The mentorship and guidance he can provide to our young Sri Lankan players will be invaluable, and we are excited to see that experience shared both on and off the field," Dodanwela remarked.
Current Jaffna Kings Squad
The Jaffna Kings Squad includes: Avishka Fernando, Bhanuka Rajapaksa (c), Ibrahim Zadran, Kamil Mishara (wk), Nuwanidu Fernando, David Wiese, Dunith Wellalage, Piyush Chawla, Dilshan Madushanka, Lizaad Williams, Traveen Mathew, Shakib Al Hasan, Mohamed Shiraz, Sandeep Lamichhane, Kugathas Mathulan, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Nishan Madushka, Dipendra Singh Airee, Praveen Maneesha.