“LPL 2025 Gets Bigger & Better!” – Indian cricketers expected to feature for the first time
The sixth edition of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) is all set to make history, with the 2025 season confirmed to run from December 1 to December 23, offering 24 days of high-octane T20 cricket action — the longest edition in the tournament’s history.
The upcoming season promises to be a landmark moment for Sri Lankan cricket, not only because of the extended schedule but also due to the expected participation of Indian players for the first time ever. Their inclusion, whose names will be announced soon, is anticipated to significantly boost the league’s global reach and fan engagement.
This year’s LPL will feature 24 matches, comprising 20 league games and 4 knockout fixtures, spread across Sri Lanka’s premier cricketing venues — R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium (Colombo), Pallekele International Cricket Stadium (Kandy), and Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium (Dambulla).
Positioned strategically ahead of the 2026 Cricket World Cup, the 2025 edition aims to serve as a crucial platform for players to gain match fitness, exposure, and competitive experience in a year packed with international cricket.
Tournament Director Speaks
Speaking about the extended season, Samantha Dodanwela, Tournament Director of the LPL, emphasized the importance of timing and player development.
“The timing of this edition has been carefully chosen to ensure that players gain maximum exposure and high-quality match practice in the lead-up to a global cricketing year,” Dodanwela stated.
“Over the seasons, the LPL has emerged as a breeding ground for fresh talent, with several youngsters making their mark alongside international stars. This year too, we believe the league will throw up exciting new names who can go on to spring surprises on the world stage ahead of the World Cup.”
Tournament Format
The five LPL franchises will face each other twice during the round-robin stage. The top four teams will qualify for the playoffs:
- Qualifier 1: Between the top two teams, with the winner advancing directly to the final.
- Eliminator: Between the 3rd and 4th placed sides.
- Qualifier 2: The winner of the Eliminator will play the loser of Qualifier 1 to decide the second finalist.
Global Appeal and Audience Growth
Anil Mohan Sankhdhar, Founder and CEO of IPG Group — the official rights holder of LPL — highlighted the league’s impressive growth trajectory and soaring international viewership.
“The Lanka Premier League has rapidly grown into one of Asia’s most thrilling T20 spectacles, and the overwhelming response to last year’s season is proof of that,” he said.
“With over 780 million viewers tuning in globally and stadiums packed to the brim, the LPL has struck a chord not only in Sri Lanka but across major cricketing markets like India, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. The 2025 edition will raise the bar even higher, bringing fans an even bigger celebration of cricket.”
With the action scheduled just months before the 2026 World Cup, LPL 2025 is shaping up to be a high-intensity showcase of both Sri Lankan and international talent. Fans can expect fireworks, fresh faces, and unforgettable moments as one of Asia’s fastest-growing T20 leagues returns bigger than ever.
