Star-studded commentary panel announced for LPL 2026

COLOMBO: The Lanka Premier League (LPL) has unveiled a star-studded commentary panel for the 2026 edition of the tournament, which is scheduled to run from 17 July to 8 August.

The commentary team features renowned broadcasters and former cricketers, including Roshan Abeysinghe, former Sri Lanka internationals Russel Arnold and Farveez Maharoof, former South Africa batter H.D. Ackerman, former Pakistan captain Aamer Sohail and commentator Monali Patel.

Meanwhile, five Pakistan players were picked by different franchises during the LPL 2026 Players' Draft.

Kandy Royals recently confirmed the signing of Pakistan ODI captain and pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi for the upcoming season.

Afridi is widely regarded as one of the world's premier fast bowlers and has enjoyed successful spells in franchise competitions including the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), Big Bash League (BBL), ILT20, The Hundred and the Vitality Blast.

The left-arm quick has also led Lahore Qalandars to three Pakistan Super League (PSL) titles. Across 94 PSL matches, he has taken 138 wickets at an economy rate of 7.96.

Galle Gallants strengthened their squad by signing experienced all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz in the Platinum Overseas category, while Colombo Kaps secured the services of fast bowler Shahnawaz Dahani in the Gold category.

Dambulla Sixers, meanwhile, selected Pakistan pacer Mohammad Wasim Jr in the Gold category. He will join compatriot Sahibzada Farhan, who was retained by the franchise as its Overseas Icon ahead of the draft.

The 2026 LPL season will get underway on 17 July with a repeat of the 2024 final, as defending champions Jaffna Kings face Galle Gallants in the opening match.

Five teams will compete for the title this year: Jaffna Kings, Colombo Kaps, Kandy Royals, Galle Gallants and Dambulla Sixers.