Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi has been confirmed as a Kandy Royals player for the 2026 Lanka Premier League (LPL), with the tournament organisers announcing his signing ahead of the competition’s start this week.
Afridi’s availability for the tournament comes after he was left out of Pakistan’s recently announced Test squad for the tour of the West Indies, allowing him to take part in the LPL during the same period.
The LPL confirmed Afridi’s participation through a social media post on Monday, ending speculation after Sri Lanka Cricket had earlier shared a teaser featuring a left-arm fast bowler whose action closely resembled the Pakistan star.
The left-arm pacer is set to make his LPL debut in the tournament, which runs from July 17 to August 8.
One of the world’s leading fast bowlers, Afridi has featured in several franchise leagues, including the Big Bash League, Bangladesh Premier League, ILT20, The Hundred and the Vitality Blast. He has also captained Lahore Qalandars to three Pakistan Super League titles.
Five Pakistani players will feature in this year’s LPL. Mohammad Nawaz has joined Galle Gallants, while Colombo Kaps signed Mohammad Haris and Shahnawaz Dahani. Dambulla Sixers selected Mohammad Wasim Jr, who will play alongside retained overseas icon Sahibzada Farhan.
The 2026 LPL will begin on July 17 with defending champions Jaffna Kings taking on Galle Gallants. Kandy Royals will open their campaign against Dambulla Thunders on July 18. (Newswire)