Lanka Premier League
Sri Lanka's premier T20 franchise cricket competition. Jaffna Kings have won 4 of 5 editions — follow every match from the island's most iconic grounds.
About the Lanka Premier League
The Lanka Premier League (LPL)is Sri Lanka's premier T20 franchise cricket competition, launched in 2020 under the stewardship of Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC). The LPL is held annually in July — a window that keeps it clear of the IPL, PSL, and major northern-hemisphere leagues — making it one of the few standalone T20 franchises in the global calendar.
Five franchises representing Sri Lanka's major cricket centres compete across four iconic grounds: R. Premadasa Stadium (Colombo), Pallekele International Cricket Stadium (Kandy), Rangiri Dambulla Stadium, and Galle International Stadium — whose UNESCO World Heritage fortress setting makes it one of cricket's most photographed grounds.
Jaffna Kings(formerly Jaffna Stallions) are the LPL's dominant dynasty, having won 4 of the 5 editions. Their nearest rivals, B-Love Kandy, broke Jaffna's grip in 2023 before the Kings reasserted themselves with a dominant 9-wicket final victory in 2024. The LPL has been a key showcase for Sri Lankan talent including Wanindu Hasaranga, Pathum Nissanka, and Dasun Shanaka.
LPL Franchises
5 FranchisesJaffna Kings
Pallekele International Cricket Stadium
The undisputed kings of the LPL — four titles from five editions (2020, 2021, 2022, 2024). Their 2024 triumph — a 9-wicket demolition of Galle Marvels — showed they remain the team to beat.
B-Love Kandy
Pallekele International Cricket Stadium
2023 LPL champions and Jaffna's fiercest rival. The Kandy franchise broke Jaffna's two-year reign with a commanding 2023 campaign playing at the scenic Pallekele Stadium in Sri Lanka's hill capital.
Dambulla Sixers
Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium
Formerly Dambulla Viiking and Dambulla Giants. Playing at the iconic Rangiri Dambulla Stadium — carved into a rock fortress — Dambulla have been consistent playoff contenders.
Colombo Strikers
R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium
The capital franchise, playing at R. Premadasa Stadium in the heart of Colombo. Formerly Colombo Stars and Colombo Kings, the Strikers carry the weight of expectation as the city team.
Galle Marvels
Galle International Stadium
Playing at Galle's UNESCO World Heritage fortress ground — one of cricket's most picturesque venues. Galle reached the 2024 final before falling to Jaffna, their best result to date.
LPL Champions — All Editions
| Year | Champion | Runner-up |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Jaffna Kings | Galle Marvels |
| 2023 | B-Love Kandy | Jaffna Kings |
| 2022 | Jaffna Kings | Dambulla Giants |
| 2021 | Jaffna Kings | Dambulla Viiking |
| 2020 | Jaffna Stallions | Kandy Tuskers |
About the LPL Format
Tournament Format
Five franchises play a double round-robin league stage (20 matches), generating a points table. The top four teams qualify for playoffs — Qualifier 1, Eliminator, Qualifier 2 and Final.
Venues & Schedule
Matches span R. Premadasa (Colombo), Pallekele (Kandy), Rangiri Dambulla, and Galle International Stadium. The tournament runs in July over roughly three weeks.
Player Eligibility
Each team can field up to four overseas players per match. The LPL attracts high-profile international T20 specialists alongside Sri Lanka's strong core of domestic talent.
When to Watch
LPL matches typically start at 19:30 or 15:00 local Sri Lanka time (IST +30 min, GMT +5:30). The July window avoids direct competition with every other major T20 league.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has won the Lanka Premier League the most times?
Jaffna Kings (including their 2020 incarnation as Jaffna Stallions) have won 4 of the 5 LPL editions: 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2024. B-Love Kandy are the only other champions, winning in 2023.
When is the LPL played?
The Lanka Premier League is typically held in July, during Sri Lanka's domestic off-season. The 2024 edition ran from July 1-21, 2024.
How many teams compete in the LPL?
Five teams compete in the LPL: Jaffna Kings, B-Love Kandy, Dambulla Sixers, Colombo Strikers and Galle Marvels. Each team plays home and away matches before a knockout playoff.
Which venues host LPL matches?
LPL matches are played across four iconic Sri Lankan grounds: R. Premadasa Stadium (Colombo), Pallekele International Cricket Stadium (Kandy), Rangiri Dambulla Stadium, and Galle International Stadium.
Can I watch LPL cricket live?
The LPL is broadcast on Siyatha TV in Sri Lanka. International streaming rights vary by region — check GeoCric's /watch page for broadcaster details.
Who are the key players to watch in the LPL?
The LPL regularly attracts Sri Lanka internationals like Pathum Nissanka, Dasun Shanaka, and Wanindu Hasaranga alongside high-profile overseas stars. Jaffna Kings have traditionally recruited the strongest overseas T20 talent.