Jaffna Kings franchise termination puts SLC and IPG in control after Sports Commune failed to meet its financial obligations.
The Jaffna Kings franchise termination has placed the Lanka Premier League team under the full operational control of Sri Lanka Cricket and tournament rights holder Innovative Production Group.
IPG announced that it had ended its agreement with Sports Commune, which held the franchise rights for the Jaffna Kings. The company attributed the decision to the franchisee’s failure to meet its financial obligations under the agreement.
The termination comes one week after Indian authorities arrested the franchise owners over allegations that they attempted to influence Lanka Premier League matches.
However, IPG did not link the termination to the ongoing criminal investigation. It said financial non-compliance formed the basis of its decision.
Following the termination, all rights connected to the Jaffna Kings reverted to IPG. The tournament rights holder and Sri Lanka Cricket have now assumed responsibility for operating the team.
Jaffna Kings Franchise Termination Will Not Halt LPL Campaign
IPG confirmed that the sixth edition of the Lanka Premier League will continue as scheduled. The Jaffna Kings will also remain in the competition under their existing name.
To prevent disruption, IPG and Sri Lanka Cricket have taken responsibility for the contracts of all players, coaches and support staff.
The organisers said they had also secured the logistical arrangements required to keep the squad together throughout the tournament.
According to IPG, officials have already completed approximately 90% of payments owed to players and staff. They will settle the remaining amounts in line with contractual commitments.
IPG Chief Executive Officer Anil Mohan said the organisers acted to protect the tournament’s integrity and stability.
“While this was a difficult decision, our priority has always been to protect the integrity of the Lanka Premier League and ensure complete stability for our players, coaches, partners and fans,” Mohan said.
“Together with Sri Lanka Cricket, we have acted swiftly to ensure the Jaffna Kings continue to participate in the tournament without disruption. We want to assure everyone that all operational matters, including player contracts, staff commitments and team logistics, are being managed seamlessly.”
The Jaffna Kings franchise termination represents a significant change in the ownership structure during the tournament. However, organisers insist it will not affect the team’s participation or the wider LPL schedule.
IPG and Sri Lanka Cricket said they remain committed to delivering a successful sixth edition. They also pledged to maintain professionalism, transparency and integrity for players, teams, commercial partners and supporters.
