Former India Pacer Zaheer Khan Becomes LPL Champions Jaffna Kings' New Co-Owner
Former India fast bowler Zaheer Khan, through his co-owned firm Anchor Sports AB, has acquired the four-time Lanka Premier League (LPL) champions Jaffna Kings, rebranding them as 'Anchor Jaffna Kings'. The acquisition, announced on August 4, 2026, follows the termination of the previous ownership due to financial irregularities and alleged match-fixing.
Former India pace spearhead Zaheer Khan has made a significant foray into franchise cricket ownership, becoming a co-owner of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) powerhouse, Jaffna Kings. The acquisition was officially completed on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, by Stockholm-based global sports ownership group Anchor Sports AB, which Khan co-owns with businessman Nagendra Siddoutam. Following the takeover, the hugely successful franchise, previously known as Jaffna Kings, has been officially rebranded as 'Anchor Jaffna Kings'. 21 Needed Off 6 Balls, Dilshan Madushanka Bowls Wicket Maiden Against Vijay Shankar During LPL 2026.
This high-profile ownership change comes at a pivotal time for the Jaffna franchise, which has been under the emergency operational control of Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) and the LPL rights holders, Innovative Production Group (IPG), after the termination of the previous owners, Sports Commune. The termination was necessitated by financial irregularities and the arrest of former India U19 cricketer Manjot Kalra, a co-owner of Sports Commune, on alleged match-fixing charges.
A New Era for a Dominant Franchise
The Jaffna franchise holds an unparalleled legacy in the LPL, having clinched four championship titles in the tournament's six-year history. Their current campaign sees them leading the LPL standings with an impressive 11 points from eight matches.
Welcoming the new ownership, Anil Mohan Sankhdhar, Founder and CEO of Innovative Production Group (IPG), expressed optimism. "We welcome Anchor Sports on board and to the LPL family as they take over the iconic Jaffna franchise," Sankhdhar stated. "Jaffna has been a legendary team... setting the benchmark for excellence. We are confident that Anchor Sports will build on this remarkable legacy, bringing fresh vision and energy to the franchise."
Zaheer Khan's Vision for Sri Lankan Cricket
Zaheer Khan himself conveyed his enthusiasm for the new venture. "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," Khan remarked. He added, "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 Anchor Jaffna Kings."
Anchor Sports AB is rapidly expanding its global cricketing footprint. The acquisition of Anchor Jaffna Kings adds to their existing portfolio, which includes the Antwerp Anchors in the European T20 Premier League (Belgium) and the Vancouver Anchors men's and women's teams in Canada's Super 60 League. Manjot Kalra Denied Bail in LPL Match-Fixing Scandal, Remains in Custody.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Acquiring Entity | Anchor Sports AB (co-owned by Zaheer Khan and Nagendra Siddoutam) |
| Acquired Team | Jaffna Kings |
| New Name | Anchor Jaffna Kings |
| Date of Acquisition | August 4, 2026 (announced) |
| League | Lanka Premier League (LPL) |
| Previous Ownership | Sports Commune (terminated due to financial issues and match-fixing allegations against co-owner Manjot Kalra) |
| Team Performance | Four-time LPL Champions; currently leading LPL 2026 standings with 11 points from eight matches |
| Anchor Sports AB's other franchises | Antwerp Anchors (European T20 Premier League), Vancouver Anchors (Canada's Super 60 League) |
This strategic move by Zaheer Khan and Anchor Sports AB promises to inject renewed stability and vision into one of the LPL's most successful franchises, aiming to build on its rich legacy while navigating the complexities of modern-day franchise cricket.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 05, 2026 11:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
