Former India allrounder Vijay Shankar has been signed by Kandy Royals as their overseas star ahead of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2026 season, marking a fresh chapter in his professional career after stepping away from Indian domestic cricket and the IPL.
Shankar, who recently announced his retirement from Indian domestic cricket and the IPL on May 22, stated that the decision was made “to pursue new opportunities and play more cricket.” The LPL will now become his first major assignment outside India’s domestic structure, offering him a new platform in franchise cricket.
Kandy Royals have made a strong statement in the pre-draft signings, assembling a high-profile group of marquee players. England allrounder Moeen Ali has been named the franchise’s overseas icon, while Sri Lanka’s Wanindu Hasaranga and Angelo Mathews headline the local marquee selections. The combination of international experience and local pedigree signals serious intent from the franchise ahead of the new season.
The Royals’ aggressive recruitment reflects the broader build-up to what is expected to be a competitive edition of the tournament. Several high-profile international players have already committed across franchises, adding depth and global appeal to the league.
Among the notable overseas signings ahead of the player draft scheduled for June 1 in Colombo are Shakib Al Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, James Neesham, Sahibzada Farhan, and Rassie van der Dussen. Australia’s Ben McDermott and Neesham will feature for Colombo Kings alongside Kusal Mendis and Kamindu Mendis, while Dambulla Sixers have secured Farhan and Reeza Hendricks as their overseas picks. Galle Gladiators have brought in van der Dussen as their sole overseas marquee signing, alongside Dasun Shanaka and Eshan Malinga. Defending champions Jaffna Kings have retained a strong core, adding the Bangladesh duo of Shakib Al Hasan and Taskin Ahmed, alongside local names Bhanuka Rajapaksa and Dunith Wellalage.
The LPL 2026 season is scheduled to begin on July 17, with the final set for August 18, marking the return of the tournament after a two-year break. Sri Lanka Cricket had previously postponed the 2025 edition to focus on preparations for the 2026 T20 World Cup, co-hosted by Sri Lanka and India.
With marquee signings already shaping franchise identities before the draft, anticipation is building for what promises to be one of the most competitive editions of the LPL yet.
