News Summary
Prepared after review.
- For the first time in the Lanka Premier League 2026, the ‘Impact Player’ rule and a requirement to field at least one player under 23 years old will be implemented.
- In Monday’s Lanka Premier League draft, Nepalese players Sandeep Lamichhane, Dipendra Singh Airee, and Kushal Bhurtel were signed by different teams.
- For the upcoming tournament, four out of the five Lanka Premier League teams will compete under new ownership, coaching staff, and names.
May 2, Kathmandu – Sri Lanka’s Lanka Premier League (LPL) will introduce the ‘Impact Player’ rule for the first time in the 2026 edition. Additionally, a new regulation mandates each team to have at least one player under 23 years of age on the field throughout the match.
The Impact Player rule is currently in use in India’s Indian Premier League (IPL). It allows a team to substitute one player with another during the game.
At Monday’s draft held in Colombo, these two rules were key considerations for team selection. Even after using an Impact Player substitution, teams must ensure that one under-23 player remains on the field at all times.
As a result, franchises face the challenge of balancing experienced players with young talent while assembling their squads. It was also noted that many of Sri Lanka’s Under-19 players will be unavailable due to a series against India scheduled in July, which limits teams’ options in selecting young players.
Three Nepalese players have been signed through the draft. Sandeep Lamichhane and Dipendra Singh Airee joined SC Jaffna Kings, while Kushal Bhurtel was signed by Colombo Capitals.
During the draft, it was also announced that Sri Lankan opener Pathum Nissanka and fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana are currently injured.
Out of the five LPL teams, four will enter the competition under new owners and coaches. Jaffna will compete as SC Jaffna Kings; Galle as Galle Galleon; Kandy as Kandy Royals; and Colombo as Colombo Capitals. The Dambulla Sixers will retain their existing name.
The draft rules required each team to include at least 18 players, with an option to sign up to two additional players if needed.
