WATCH: Shaheen Afridi's Lanka Premier League debut teased

COLOMBO: The Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has fuelled speculation over Pakistan pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi's participation in the upcoming Lanka Premier League (LPL) after sharing a cryptic teaser on social media ahead of the tournament.

A video posted on Instagram features a left-arm fast bowler whose run-up, bowling action and follow-through closely resemble Afridi's trademark style.

The clip quickly went viral, prompting fans to speculate that the Pakistan ODI captain could be set to make his LPL debut this season.

"A storm is coming. The King of Pace is arriving at LPL 2026. Can you guess WHO… and for WHICH TEAM?" the post was captioned.

The teaser comes just days before the tournament, which is scheduled to run from July 17 to August 8. While Afridi is widely expected to feature in the competition, the franchise he will represent has yet to be officially announced.

Afridi has established himself as one of the world's leading fast bowlers and has enjoyed successful stints in several franchise leagues, including the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), Big Bash League (BBL), ILT20, The Hundred and the Vitality Blast.

The left-arm pacer has also captained Lahore Qalandars to three Pakistan Super League (PSL) titles. In 94 PSL appearances, he has claimed 138 wickets at an economy rate of 7.96.

Meanwhile, five Pakistan cricketers were selected by various franchises during the LPL 2026 players' draft.

Galle Gallants secured experienced all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz in the Platinum Overseas category. Colombo Kaps strengthened their squad by signing Mohammad Haris and Shahnawaz Dahani in the Gold category.

Dambulla Sixers, meanwhile, picked Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Wasim Jr in the Gold category. He will join compatriot Sahibzada Farhan, who was retained as the franchise's Overseas Icon before the draft.

The 2026 edition of the LPL will begin on July 17 with a repeat of the 2024 final, as defending champions Jaffna Kings take on Galle Gallants in the tournament opener.

Five franchises will compete in this year's tournament: Jaffna Kings, Colombo Kaps, Kandy Royals, Galle Gallants and Dambulla Sixers.