NEW DELHI: The Lanka Premier League (LPL) organisers on Monday confirmed that Indian cricketers will participate in the tournament for the first time when the sixth edition kicks off on December 1.
The T20 league will consist of 24 matches, comprising 20 league games and four knockout fixtures, staged across three top venues: R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo, Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy, and Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium in Dambulla.
"For the very first time, Indian cricketers are expected to join the action, their names will be revealed soon, adding a whole new level of excitement for fans across the region," a press release said.
Under the tournament format, all five franchises will face each other twice during the league stage. At the conclusion of the round-robin phase, the top four teams will advance to the playoffs.
Qualifier 1, the opening playoff match, will see the top two teams go head-to-head, with the winner earning a direct spot in the final.
The third and fourth-placed teams will clash in the Eliminator, with the winner then taking on the loser of Qualifier 1 in Qualifier 2 to decide the second finalist.
"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," Samantha Dodanwela, Tournament Director, LPL, said.
"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."
