The Lanka Premier League (LPL) is expanding to feature six franchises in its sixth season, scheduled to run from July 10 to August 5, 2026. This expansion marks a significant step for the tournament, solidifying its position as a leading T20 cricket league in South Asia.
A Bigger, Bolder Season
Tournament Director Samantha Dodanwela expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming season, emphasizing the passion, skill, and entertainment that the LPL brings to Sri Lankan cricket. The addition of a sixth team promises a more competitive and exciting league, showcasing both international and local talent. The July-August window provides an ideal timeframe to display world-class cricket during a time when T20 fever grips the nation.
Strategic Postponement and Venue Preparation
Originally slated for November-December 2025, the LPL was postponed to prioritize preparations for the 2026 ICC Men's T20 World Cup, which Sri Lanka will co-host with India. This decision allows Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) to focus on upgrading venues to meet international standards for the World Cup. The sixth edition will now take place from July 8 to August 8, 2026.
New Franchise and Ownership
The sixth franchise will join the existing teams from Colombo, Dambulla, Galle, Jaffna, and Kandy. The identity of the new team is expected to be revealed soon. Earlier this year, the Colombo franchise was acquired by Indian sports consortium Witness Sports Alliance LLC, led by Saranyan Palaniswamy and K.C. Shyam Kangayan. The team has been rebranded as Colombo Kaps, symbolizing cross-border collaboration in South Asian cricket. The Dambulla franchise also saw a change in ownership, with Imperial Sports Group, led by Bangladeshi entrepreneurs Tamim Rahman and Golam Rakib, taking over and renaming the team Dambulla Thunders.
Global Appeal and Economic Impact
The LPL has consistently attracted top-tier talent and strengthened the domestic cricket framework since its inception in 2020. Chris Gayle continues to serve as the league's Brand Ambassador, adding to its global appeal. The league has generated substantial revenue for Sri Lanka Cricket, with increasing international viewership each year. In its initial years, the LPL generated LKR334 million in 2020, LKR463 million in 2021, and LKR839 million in 2022.
LPL History and Past Winners
The Lanka Premier League was initially planned for 2018 but faced repeated postponements. The inaugural edition finally took place in 2020 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The Jaffna franchise has been the most successful, winning four titles. The Jaffna Stallions won the first edition in 2020, followed by the Jaffna Kings in 2021, 2022 and 2024. The Kandy franchise secured their first title in 2023.
Looking Ahead
The expansion to six teams, coupled with strategic planning and new ownership, sets the stage for an exciting sixth season of the Lanka Premier League. The league continues to provide a platform for Sri Lankan cricketers to showcase their skills and gain international exposure. With the inclusion of Indian players for the first time and increasing global interest, the LPL is poised to reach new heights in 2026.
