Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has officially moved the 6th edition of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) to a mid-year window, confirming that the tournament will now be played from July 8 to August 8, 2026.
Why the tournament was postponed
The LPL was originally scheduled for November 27 to December 23, 2025 across Colombo, Pallekele and Dambulla. However, SLC postponed the event to give full priority to preparations for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which Sri Lanka will co-host with India in February–March 2026.
Renovations at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium had already been paused due to Sri Lanka co-hosting the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup with India. With two back-to-back ICC events, SLC decided it needed uninterrupted time to prepare all host venues.
Mid-year LPL returns
With the revised dates, LPL returns to the July–August window, similar to the 2023 season.
SLC stated:
“The new dates were finalized following the postponement of the tournament… considering the broader requirement of preparing the host venues well in advance for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.”
Teams confirmed — but Jaffna franchise terminated
Four teams are confirmed for LPL 2026:
- Colombo Kaps
- Dambulla Sixers
- Galle Marvels
- Kandy Falcons
However, the Jaffna Kings franchise has been terminated after owners Lyca Group failed to meet SLC’s obligations. It remains unclear whether:
- Jaffna will be rebranded under a new owner, or
- A completely new franchise will join the league.
What’s next?
With a return to the mid-year slot and a World Cup on home soil just months earlier, the LPL 2026 season is expected to gain added attention. SLC will announce further team and venue updates in the coming months.
