Former PBKS star set to light up Lanka Premier League, RR youngster also secures deal

Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2026 draft witnessed several high-profile signings on Monday, June 1, with former Punjab Kings (PBKS) spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman emerging as one of the headline acquisitions ahead of the tournament's sixth edition.

Mujeeb, who represented Punjab Kings between 2018 and 2020 in the Indian Premier League (IPL), was snapped up by Colombo Kaps as their platinum overseas pick. The Afghanistan mystery spinner was among several Afghan stars to attract significant attention during the draft.

The LPL 2026 season is scheduled to run from July 17 to August 18, with matches set to be played across Colombo, Dambulla, and Pallekele.

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Mujeeb headlines overseas signings in LPL 2026 draft

Colombo Kaps strengthened their squad by securing the services of Mujeeb Ur Rahman, adding one of the most experienced T20 spinners in world cricket to their roster.

The Afghan spinner made a name for himself during his stint with Punjab Kings in the IPL, where his variations and ability to strike during the powerplay made him one of the most dangerous bowlers in the competition.

Apart from Mujeeb, Afghanistan stars Ibrahim Zadran, Gulbadin Naib, and the RR bowler Fazalhaq Farooqi also found franchises during the draft, highlighting the growing influence of Afghan cricketers in franchise leagues around the world.

Meanwhile, Jaffna Kings used the first pick of the draft to sign Sri Lankan batter Avishka Fernando. The franchise further strengthened its batting lineup by adding Kamil Mishara and Afghanistan opener Ibrahim Zadran in the gold category.

Young talents steal the spotlight at LPL 2026 draft

Kandy Royals focused on experience by drafting Kusal Perera, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Nuwan Thushara, and Asitha Fernando. The franchise also signed Scotland all-rounder Brandon McMullen under the Associate Stars category.

Dambulla Sixers opted for Sri Lanka spinner Maheesh Theekshana as their platinum local pick, while Afghanistan pacer Fazalhaq Farooqi was selected as their platinum overseas player. They also added USA all-rounder Shadley van Schalkwyk to strengthen their squad.

A total of 97 players were drafted across the five franchises as teams finalized their squads for LPL 2026.

With several international stars and emerging talents set to feature, the upcoming edition promises another exciting chapter in Sri Lanka's premier T20 competition.