Vijay Shankar to make Lanka Premier League debut; Avishka Fernando goes No.1 in Season 6 draft
Colombo, June 2
India all-rounder Vijay Shankar is set to be the lone Indian player in the Lanka Premier League 2026 after being signed by Kandy Royals, while Sri Lanka international Avishka Fernando emerged as the No. 1 overall pick in the Season 6 Draft as franchises completed their squads for the sixth edition of the tournament.
The draft, held ahead of the July 17-August 8 competition, saw all five franchises strengthen their squads with a mix of established international stars, emerging overseas talent and leading Sri Lankan cricketers, setting the stage for one of the most competitive seasons in the league's history, according to a release.
Holding the first overall selection in the LPL 2026 Draft, defending champions SC Jaffna Kings opened proceedings by selecting Sri Lanka international Avishka Fernando as the No. 1 pick.
The Kings further strengthened their squad with the additions of experienced all-rounder David Wiese, Afghanistan opener Ibrahim Zadran and Nepal leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane, who join marquee signings Dunit Wellalage and Bhanuka Rajapaksa as the franchise looks to defend its title and extend its successful run in the competition.
One of the biggest talking points for Indian cricket fans will be the participation of Vijay Shankar, who represented India at the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup, the release said.
The experienced all-rounder joins a formidable Kandy Royals squad featuring Moeen Ali, Wanindu Hasaranga and Angelo Mathews. The Royals further bolstered their line-up through the draft with the additions of Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Daniel Sams, Kusal Perera and Nuwan Thushara.
Elsewhere, Colombo Kaps bolstered their line-up with the international recruit Mujeeb Ur Rahman to complement icon players Jimmy Neesham and Kusal Mendis, and Kamindu Mendis.
Dambulla Sixers added proven match-winners Maheesh Theekshana and Fazalhaq Farooqi to their ranks alongside marquee signings Dinesh Chandimal and Dushmantha Chameera, while Galle Gallants strengthened their squad with Sri Lanka captain Charith Asalanka and South African batter Rassie van der Dussen, who join marquee signings Dasun Shanaka and Eshan Malinga ahead of the new season.
The player draft generated significant international interest, with more than 650 overseas cricketers from 21 countries registering for selection, underlining the growing global appeal of the Lanka Premier League and its emergence as one of the region's leading T20 competitions, the release said.
Samantha Dodanwela, Tournament Director of the Lanka Premier League, said the quality of players secured by franchises through the draft reflects the continued growth and competitiveness of the Lanka Premier League.
"The squads feature an exciting blend of international experience, emerging overseas talent and some of Sri Lanka's finest cricketers. The balance across all five teams promises a highly competitive tournament and an exciting experience for fans."
Anil Mohan Sankhdhar, Founder and CEO of IPG Group, the official rights holder of the LPL, said the response to this year's player draft has been outstanding.
"With registrations from 21 countries and the addition of several accomplished international cricketers alongside Sri Lanka's leading players, we are seeing the league continue to strengthen its position as one of the premier T20 competitions in the region," he said.
The sixth edition of the Lanka Premier League will feature SC Jaffna Kings, Kandy Royals, Colombo Kaps, Dambulla Sixers and Galle Gallants competing in a double round-robin format followed by the playoffs. The tournament will begin on July 17, and conclude with the final on August 8.
— ANI
Reader Comments
LPL getting better each year! 650 players from 21 countries registered - that's huge for a relatively new league. Vijay Shankar will add good depth to Kandy Royals alongside Moeen Ali and Hasaranga. Reminds me of how IPL boosted Indian cricket, now LPL helping Sri Lankan talent! 🇱🇰
Avishka Fernando going No.1 is well deserved! The guy has been consistent in T20s. But honestly, I wish more Indian players participated in LPL - our domestic talent could learn a lot from playing in Sri Lankan conditions. BCCI should allow more of our players to explore such leagues.
Vijay Shankar being the ONLY Indian player? That's a bit disappointing. With IPL being so huge, our players often overlook other leagues. But LPL schedule doesn't clash with ours, so no excuse really. Maybe BCCI's NOC policy is too strict. Kamindu Mendis and Charith Asalanka in same league - exciting season ahead!
Finally some good news for Vijay Shankar! He was such a promising all-rounder before that unfortunate injury. Kandy Royals look stacked with Moeen Ali, Hasaranga, Mathews, Gurbaz... wow! Hope he gets proper game time and not just sit on bench like some Indian players in other leagues. Rooting for him! 🙌
LPL is growing but honestly, the quality gap compared to IPL is still massive. However, it's great for developing Sri Lankan players. Jaffna Kings defending champions again with Avishka and David Wiese - they know how to build a team. Vijay Shankar needs to perform consistently
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