The Lanka Premier League (LPL) has unveiled a star-studded list of marquee signings ahead of the Season 6 player draft on June 1, headlined by India all-rounder Vijay Shankar, who is set to join the tournament for the upcoming season.

England’s Moeen Ali and Bangladesh star Shakib Al Hasan also feature among the biggest names retained as franchises lock in their core squads for the sixth edition of the league, scheduled to run from July 17 to August 8 across Sri Lanka.

Shankar, who represented India at the 2019 Cricket World Cup and claimed a wicket with his very first delivery in the tournament, brings extensive international and domestic experience to the Royals set-up.

The Tamil Nadu all-rounder joins a formidable Kandy core featuring England’s Moeen Ali, alongside Sri Lankan stalwarts Angelo Mathews and Wanindu Hasaranga, as franchises begin shaping their squads for the new season.

Anil Mohan Sankhdhar, Founder and CEO of IPG Group, the official rights holder of the LPL, said, “The Lanka Premier League continues to attract top talent from leading cricketing nations, which reflects the league’s growing stature in the global T20 ecosystem.”

“With players like Vijay Shankar, Moeen Ali, Shakib Al Hasan and several leading Sri Lankan stars featuring this season, the LPL is evolving into a strong platform for high-quality cricket and international competition. Our focus remains on strengthening the league’s presence across South Asia while delivering a world-class experience for players and fans alike,” he said.

Defending champions Jaffna Kings, the most successful franchise in LPL history, retained Bangladesh star Shakib Al Hasan alongside Sri Lankan internationals Dunith Wellalage and Bhanuka Rajapaksa as they look to continue their dominance in the competition.

As per tournament regulations, each franchise was permitted to retain up to two overseas and two Sri Lankan marquee players ahead of the draft.

– Agencies