Zaheer Khan becomes co-owner of Lanka Premier Premier's Jaffna franchise

The Jaffna-based franchise of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) has been acquired by Stockholm-based sports ownership group Anchor Sports AB, making Indian former cricketer Zaheer Khan a co-owner of the franchise.

The LPL franchise, previously known as the Jaffna Kings, will now be renamed “Anchor Jaffna Kings”.

The Jaffna Kings are the most successful team in Lanka Premier League history, being the current defending champions and having won the championship four times.

The 2026 Lanka Premier League season is currently ongoing, having kicked off on July 17, with the final scheduled to be held on August 8. The Kings are currently top of the points table and have qualified for the final, where they will play either the Colombo Kaps or the Galle Gallants.

On his new venture, Zaheer Khan commented:

“I’ve always admired the calibre, innovation and variety of bowling talent that comes out of Sri Lanka. It’s a country I’ve visited, competed in, and hold very fond memories of. To now be part of Sri Lankan cricket as an owner is something I’m genuinely thrilled about, and I can’t wait to get started with the Jaffna Anchors.”

Samantha Dodanwela, LPL Tournament Director, commented:

“Having an owner of Zaheer Khan’s calibre involved with the Jaffna Anchor is a real boost for the league. The mentorship and direction he can offer our young Sri Lankan players will be enormous, and we’re excited to see that experience passed on both on and off the field.”

Anil Mohan, Chairman and CEO of Innovative Production Group, said:

“We welcome Anchor Sports on board and to the LPL family as they take over the iconic Jaffna franchise. Jaffna has been a legendary team in the six-year history of the league, winning four championship titles and setting the benchmark for excellence. We are confident that Anchor Sports will build on this remarkable legacy, bring fresh vision and energy to the franchise and continue to elevate the standard of the Lanka Premier League. We look forward to an exciting new chapter for Jaffna and wish the new ownership every success.”

Nagendra Siddoutam, Co-founder, Anchor Sports AB, added:

“This is a significant step for us. Sri Lanka has a rich cricketing heritage, and the LPL has established itself as a well-run, highly competitive league in a short span of time. The Anchor Jaffna Kings will be a natural extension of what we’re building globally – franchises that are rooted in their local communities while being part of a connected, international Anchor network. We’re looking forward to investing in the Anchor Jaffna Kings and contributing to the league’s continued growth.”