Lanka Premier League 2026 Draft Highlights And Top Picks: Vijay Shankar Among Big Names to Play

Former India all-rounder Vijay Shankar is set to be the only Indian in the Lanka Premier League LPL 2026, after Kandy Royals secured a deal. Sri Lanka international Avishka Fernando becomes the No. 1 overall pick, as teams complete squads for Season 6 of the T20 tournament.

The Season 6 Draft takes place before the competition scheduled from July 17 to August 8. All five franchises use the draft to shape squads with leading Sri Lankan players, known overseas stars and upcoming talent. Organisers expect one of the most competitive editions in the league’s short history.

Vijay recently announced his retirement from international and Indian cricket. MyKhel had an exclusive with the all-rounder, who wished to seek opportunities elsewhere.

Lanka Premier League LPL 2026 Draft highlights and top picks

Defending champions SC Jaffna Kings hold the first overall pick and start the Lanka Premier League LPL 2026 Draft by choosing Avishka Fernando. The franchise then adds all-rounder David Wiese, Afghanistan opener Ibrahim Zadran and Nepal leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane. They join marquee signings Dunit Wellalage and Bhanuka Rajapaksa in a squad aiming to retain the title.

Attention in India focuses on Vijay Shankar, who represented India at the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup. Vijay Shankar links up with a strong Kandy Royals group that already includes Moeen Ali, Wanindu Hasaranga and Angelo Mathews. Through the draft, Royals also select Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Daniel Sams, Kusal Perera and Nuwan Thushara.

Lanka Premier League LPL 2026 squads across remaining franchises

Colombo Kaps strengthen their Lanka Premier League LPL 2026 squad by signing international spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman. Mujeeb Ur Rahman joins icon players Jimmy Neesham, Kusal Mendis and Kamindu Mendis. Dambulla Sixers pick Maheesh Theekshana and Fazalhaq Farooqi, who come in alongside marquee players Dinesh Chandimal and Dushmantha Chameera for the new season.

Galle Gallants also reshape their Lanka Premier League LPL 2026 line-up. The side brings in Sri Lanka captain Charith Asalanka and South African batter Rassie van der Dussen. Both cricketers join marquee signings Dasun Shanaka and Eshan Malinga, giving the franchise additional experience and middle-order strength before Season 6 begins.

The Lanka Premier League LPL 2026 Draft attracts global attention, with more than 650 overseas players from 21 countries registering. That response highlights the tournament’s rising status among regional T20 leagues. With squads finalised, teams now prepare for a packed schedule between July 17 and August 8.