LPL 2026 Pre-Signings Confirmed as Sahibzada Farhan Joins Dambulla Sixers

COLOMBO: Franchises participating in the upcoming Lanka Premier League have finalised their initial player retention and overseas signings ahead of the official draft for the 2026 season. The tournament will run from July 17 to August 8, with matches scheduled in Colombo, Pallekele and Dambulla.

The draft, set to take place in Colombo on June 1, will complete the remaining squad positions for all five teams. Among the notable developments in the LPL 2026 pre-signings is the arrival of several high-profile overseas players, alongside a strong local core retained by each franchise.

Dambulla Sixers Secure Sahibzada Farhan

Dambulla Sixers made one of the headline moves after signing Pakistan batter Sahibzada Farhan, whose recent performances in T20 cricket drew significant attention. Sahibzada Farhan is among pre-signings confirmed before the player draft following a productive ICC Men’s T20 World Cup campaign in which he scored 383 runs in seven matches.

The franchise has also retained Sri Lanka internationals Dinesh Chandimal and Dushmantha Chameera, while South Africa opener Reeza Hendricks joins as one of the overseas selections.

Jaffna, Kandy Strengthen Experienced Core

Four-time champions Jaffna Kings added Bangladesh pair Shakib Al Hasan and Taskin Ahmed to their overseas group. The side will continue to rely on Sri Lankan players Bhanuka Rajapaksa and Dunith Wellalage as key domestic names.

Kandy Royals retained a balanced combination led by Wanindu Hasaranga, Angelo Mathews and England all-rounder Moeen Ali. India’s Vijay Shankar has also been included in the pre-draft selections.

Colombo and Galle Complete Early Selections

Colombo Kaps confirmed New Zealand all-rounder Jimmy Neesham and Australian batter Ben McDermott among their overseas signings. Sri Lanka pair Kusal Mendis and Kamindu Mendis headline the local contingent.

Meanwhile, Galle Gallants retained Dasun Shanaka and emerging pacer Eshan Malinga, while South Africa batter Rassie van der Dussen joins as the franchise’s overseas icon player.

The sixth edition of the tournament will feature 20 league matches before the playoffs and final are played across the three venues in Sri Lanka.