LPL 2026: Captains Hail Lanka Premier League's Global Rise Ahead of New Season

LPL captains back league's continued growth ahead of 2026 season

The captains of all five Lanka Premier League (LPL) franchises joined tournament officials at the official pre-season press conference, expressing confidence in the league's continued growth as one of world cricket's leading T20 competitions while highlighting its contribution to developing Sri Lankan talent.

The 2026 edition of the Lanka Premier League will begin on July 17 and conclude with the final on August 8. For the first time, matches will be played across four venues—Colombo, Dambulla, Kandy and Jaffna—expanding the tournament's footprint across Sri Lanka.

LPL continues to attract global attention

Anil Mohan Sankhdhar, Founder and CEO of IPG Group, the official rights holder of the Lanka Premier League, said the tournament has witnessed remarkable growth over the past six seasons.

"The growth of the Lanka Premier League has been remarkable over the last six seasons. Every year, the tournament continues to attract greater international interest while creating valuable opportunities for Sri Lankan players. Our focus is on continuing that journey, strengthening the league both on and off the field, and taking the LPL to even greater heights."

The league's growing international appeal was reflected in the player draft for the 2026 season, which attracted more than 650 overseas registrations from 21 countries—over 230 more than the previous edition. Registrations also included players from India, underlining the tournament's expanding global reach.

Tournament Director Samantha Dodanwela said the competition has evolved significantly since its launch in 2020.

"The LPL started in 2020, and we've made tremendous progress since then. Today, it has established itself as one of the world's foremost franchise T20 leagues. This year, we'll be playing across four venues for the first time, and we're looking forward to delivering another highly competitive and successful tournament."

Captains highlight player development

Defending champions Jaffna Kings, along with Kandy Royals, Colombo Kaps, Dambulla Sixers and Galle Gallants, will once again feature a blend of international stars and leading Sri Lankan cricketers.

Jaffna Kings captain Bhanuka Rajapaksa described the LPL as a tournament that has evolved into a truly global event.

"The LPL has grown into a truly global event over the years. One of the best things is that the tournament has continued to move forward, creating opportunities for so many players. When the overseas boys come in, we gain valuable exposure and learn so much from them. The LPL stands out because of the quality of the wickets and the spectacular way the tournament is conducted."

Kandy Royals captain Angelo Mathews said the league plays a crucial role in preparing the next generation of Sri Lankan cricketers by allowing them to compete alongside experienced international players.

Colombo Kaps skipper Kusal Mendis echoed similar sentiments, stating that the tournament provides young cricketers with a valuable learning platform while helping raise the international standards of Sri Lankan cricket.

Dambulla Sixers captain Dinesh Chandimal praised the stakeholders for sustaining the competition and described the LPL as an important opportunity for emerging players to showcase their talent.

Galle Gallants captain Dasun Shanaka called the LPL a celebration of Sri Lankan cricket and expressed hope that the upcoming season would produce more exciting local talent.

Regional fan engagement receives greater focus

Alongside an impressive player roster, this year's edition will also place greater emphasis on regional fan engagement through enhanced Sinhala-language commentary, bringing the tournament closer to audiences across Sri Lanka.

Season opener on July 17

The Lanka Premier League 2026 begins on July 17 with defending champions Jaffna Kings facing Galle Gallants at the Sinhalese Sports Club Cricket Ground in Colombo. The tournament features a 20-match league phase followed by the playoffs, with the final scheduled to be played at the R. Premadasa Stadium on August 8.

About IPG Group

IPG Group is the official rights holder of the Lanka Premier League and oversees the commercial development and promotion of Sri Lanka's premier franchise T20 competition.

 

(Inputs from Press Release)