Lanka Premier League Takes Control of Jaffna Kings Amid Ownership Turmoil

Lanka Premier League Takes Control of Jaffna Kings Amid Controversy

In a decisive move to ensure the continuity of the Jaffna Kings in the 2026 Lanka Premier League (LPL), the tournament’s governing body has assumed direct control of the franchise after terminating its agreement with the team’s owners. This decision comes in the wake of serious allegations surrounding co-owner Manjot Kalra, who was arrested by Sri Lanka Police’s Special Investigations Unit (SIU) for alleged involvement in a match-fixing attempt during the league’s opening day.

Kalra, a former India Under-19 cricketer, had acquired the franchise alongside businessman Mayank Goel. However, the Innovative Production Group (IPG), the rights holder for the tournament, clarified that the termination was primarily due to the owners’ failure to meet financial obligations, rather than the ongoing investigation.

In a statement, IPG confirmed that ownership rights have reverted to them, and they will now manage the franchise in collaboration with Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC). The Jaffna Kings will continue to compete under their established name, with no changes to the playing squad, coaching staff, or tournament schedule.

“The termination follows the franchisee’s inability to fulfil its financial obligations under the terms of the franchise agreement,” IPG stated. “As a result, all rights relating to the Jaffna Kings franchise have reverted to IPG, which, together with Sri Lanka Cricket, has assumed full operational control of the team.”

The organizers reassured players and fans that all contractual and logistical arrangements have been secured. “To ensure the uninterrupted operation of the franchise, IPG and Sri Lanka Cricket have taken complete responsibility for all player, coaching staff, and support staff contracts,” they added. Nearly 90% of payments due to players and support staff have already been processed, with the remaining dues to be settled as per contractual commitments.

IPG CEO Anil Mohan emphasized the importance of safeguarding the tournament’s integrity. “While this was a difficult decision, our priority has always been to protect the integrity of the Lanka Premier League and ensure complete stability for our players, coaches, partners, and fans,” he stated. “Together with Sri Lanka Cricket, we have acted swiftly to ensure the Jaffna Kings continue to participate in the tournament without disruption.”

The swift intervention by IPG and SLC has ensured that one of the league’s most successful franchises remains on course for the 2026 campaign, despite the off-field turmoil surrounding its former ownership. As the league progresses, fans and players alike can look forward to an uninterrupted season filled with competitive cricket.