Pakistani players attracted significant attention during the official player draft for the Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2026, with franchises selecting five prominent cricketers for the upcoming season.
According to media reports, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Haris, Shahnawaz Dhani, Akif Javed, and Mohammad Wasim Jr were drafted by various teams, highlighting the continued demand for Pakistani talent in Sri Lanka’s premier T20 competition.
The Galle Gladiators placed a major bet on experienced Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz, signing him in the Overseas Platinum category. The franchise also secured emerging left-arm pacer Akif Javed in the Gold category.
Meanwhile, the Colombo Caps showed confidence in two Pakistani players by selecting aggressive wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Haris in the Classic category and fast bowler Shahnawaz Dhani in the Gold category.
The Dambulla Sixers added Pakistan pacer Mohammad Wasim Jr to their squad in the Gold category. He will join compatriot Sahibzada Farhan, who had already been signed as an Overseas Icon Player before the draft.
The LPL 2026 is scheduled to begin on July 17, with the final set to be played on August 8. The tournament opener will feature defending champions Jaffna Kings against Galle Gladiators at the historic Sinhalese Sports Club Ground in Colombo.
League-stage matches will be played in Colombo, Dambulla, and Kandy, while the knockout rounds and final will take place at the R. Premadasa Stadium.
Nawaz earns platinum recognition
Mohammad Nawaz’s selection in the prestigious Overseas Platinum category reflects the value franchises place on his left-arm spin and lower-order batting ability. His all-round skills are expected to provide crucial balance to the Galle Gladiators.
Key opportunity for Haris and Dhani
For players such as Mohammad Haris and Shahnawaz Dhani, who have struggled to secure permanent places in Pakistan’s national side, the LPL presents a valuable platform to showcase their talent. Haris’ aggressive batting style could prove especially effective during the powerplay overs.
Dambulla’s faith in Pakistani talent
By signing Sahibzada Farhan before the draft and later selecting Mohammad Wasim Jr., the Dambulla Sixers have demonstrated strong confidence in Pakistani players. Wasim’s death-over bowling expertise and Farhan’s top-order batting could play a vital role in the team’s campaign.
Akif Javed’s surprise selection
The inclusion of left-arm fast bowler Akif Javed in the Gold category suggests franchises are increasingly prioritising T20-specific skills and bowling variety rather than relying solely on established names.
Conditions Could Favour Pakistani Players
With Sri Lanka’s monsoon season coinciding with the tournament, slower pitches are expected during July and August. Such conditions could suit players like Mohammad Nawaz and Mohammad Wasim Jr., who have the skills to exploit slower surfaces and make a significant impact for their teams.
The Lanka Premier League has rapidly emerged as one of Asia’s most competitive T20 tournaments. Pakistani players have historically enjoyed success in Sri Lankan conditions, with stars such as Babar Azam, Shoaib Malik, Fakhar Zaman, and Naseem Shah producing memorable performances in previous editions.
This year’s selections provide another opportunity for Pakistan’s white-ball specialists to gain valuable experience and further strengthen their credentials on the international stage.
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