Pakistan ODI captain Shaheen Shah Afridi is set to receive a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the PCB to play in the 2026 Lanka Premier League (LPL).
What happened?
Sources told Samaa on Sunday that Shaheen Afridi has signed with an LPL franchise and filed an NOC request with the Pakistan Cricket Board. The PCB is expected to grant the clearance, clearing the way for the fast bowler’s participation in Sri Lanka’s premier T20 league. Afridi’s move comes as the LPL prepares for its fifth edition, returning after a two-year hiatus.
Why it matters for Shaheen Afridi
For Afridi, the LPL offers a high-profile T20 stage outside Pakistan’s busy international calendar. The league’s July window—starting on July 17 and running through August 8—fits neatly between Pakistan’s white-ball series, giving Afridi a chance to sharpen his skills against top global hitters. His presence also boosts the league’s star power, drawing eyes to the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground for the July 17 opener.
Lanka Premier League 2026 schedule and venues
The LPL 2026 kicks off on July 17 at Colombo’s Sinhalese Sports Club Ground under floodlights. Reigning champions Jaffna Kings will face Galle Gladiators in a rematch of the 2024 final at 7:30pm local time, followed by the official opening ceremony. The league will then shift to three more venues—R Premadasa Stadium, Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, and Galle International Stadium—before the knockout stage returns to Colombo for the semis and final.
What comes next?
The PCB’s NOC decision is expected within days, with Afridi’s schedule already set if the board approves. If cleared, he’ll join a stacked LPL roster featuring overseas stars and Sri Lankan internationals. The league’s return marks a key moment for Sri Lankan cricket, reviving a marquee T20 event after a two-year gap.