Colombo: The Lanka Premier League (LPL) is set to make history in 2025 with the official inclusion of Indian cricketers for the first time. The sixth edition of Sri Lanka’s flagship T20 league will run from December 1 to December 23, featuring 24 matches across three venues: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, Pallekele International Stadium, Kandy, and Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium.

Historic inclusion of Indian players

Organisers confirmed that Indian cricketers are expected to join the league, with specific names to be announced shortly. “For the very first time, Indian cricketers are expected to join the action, adding a whole new level of excitement for fans across the region,” the official press release stated.

The inclusion of Indian players is seen as a landmark development, set to broaden the league’s audience and raise the competitiveness of Sri Lanka’s T20 tournament. It also reflects a growing trend of cross-border participation in regional T20 leagues, bridging cricketing talent across the subcontinent.

Tournament format and schedule

The 2025 LPL edition will feature five franchises competing in a double round-robin format, where each team plays the others twice during the league phase, amounting to 20 matches before the playoffs.

The playoff structure includes:

  • Qualifier 1: Top two teams compete; the winner advances directly to the final.
  • Eliminator: Teams ranked third and fourth face off; the winner meets the loser of Qualifier 1 in Qualifier 2 to decide the second finalist.

This year’s tournament will span 24 days, making it the longest edition in LPL history, designed to maximize player participation and fan engagement.

Strategic timing ahead of a global cricket year

Tournament Director Samantha Dodanwela highlighted that the scheduling of LPL 2025 was deliberately aligned with the upcoming international cricket calendar. “The timing of this edition has been carefully chosen to ensure that players gain maximum exposure and high-quality match practice in the lead-up to a global cricketing year,” she said.

Despite competing with other major T20 leagues like the UAE’s ILT20 and Australia’s Big Bash League, organisers are confident that the inclusion of Indian players will give the LPL a strategic edge in attracting audiences and talent.

Platform for emerging stars

Since its inception in 2020, the LPL has been an important platform for local talent to shine alongside international stars. Dodanwela emphasised that the 2025 edition will continue this tradition, potentially unearthing fresh prospects ahead of the next World Cup.

“Over the seasons, the LPL has emerged as a breeding ground for fresh talent, with several youngsters making their mark alongside international stars. This year too, we believe the league will throw up exciting new names who can go on to spring surprises on the world stage ahead of the World Cup,” she noted.

Defending champions and excitement ahead

The Jaffna Kings, defending champions, will look to extend their dominance. With Indian players making their debut, the 2025 LPL edition is poised to be one of the most anticipated and competitive tournaments in the league’s history.

Fans across South Asia are eagerly awaiting the announcement of Indian participants, as the league promises high-quality T20 cricket, thrilling encounters, and opportunities for emerging stars to make their mark on the global stage.