Sports

Historic first: Indian cricket stars confirmed for Lanka Premier League this December

Published

7 months ago

October 7, 2025

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In a landmark moment for South Asian cricket, the Lanka Premier League has confirmed that Indian cricketers will compete in the tournament for the first time in its six-year history.

The sixth edition of the LPL, running December 1-23, will be the longest in the league’s history at 24 days, and now features the most anticipated player roster yet.

Breaking new ground

Until now, Indian players have been notably absent from the LPL lineup. That changes this December, with leading Indian cricketers set to join Sri Lankan stars and international talent across three premier venues.

While specific names remain under wraps, the announcement has already sent ripples across cricket-crazy nations from Mumbai to Colombo, with fans eagerly awaiting the roster reveal.

Perfect timing for World Cup prep

Strategically scheduled just months before the 2026 Cricket World Cup, the extended LPL season offers players vital competitive match practice on the international stage.

“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,” said Samantha Dodanwela, Tournament Director of the LPL.

The tournament breakdown

When: December 1-23 (24 days)
Where: Colombo (R. Premadasa Stadium), Kandy (Pallekele Stadium), Dambulla (Rangiri Dambulla Stadium)
Format: 24 matches total – 20 league games, 4 playoff matches
Teams: 5 franchises competing

How it works: Each team faces every other team twice in the league phase. The top four advance to the playoffs, with the top two earning shots at direct qualification to the final through Qualifier 1. Third and fourth place battle in the Eliminator, with the winner getting another chance in Qualifier 2.

Building on massive success

Last season’s LPL drew a staggering 780 million television viewers globally, with packed stadiums across Sri Lanka and strong viewership from India, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.

“The Lanka Premier League has rapidly grown into one of Asia’s most thrilling T20 spectacles,” said Anil Mohan Sankhdhar, Founder and CEO of IPG Group, the league’s official rights holder.

With Indian stars now in the mix, those numbers are expected to soar even higher.

A launchpad for emerging talent

Beyond the marquee names, the LPL has built a reputation as a proving ground for rising stars who later shine on the world stage.

“Over the seasons, the LPL has emerged as a breeding ground for fresh talent, with several youngsters making their mark alongside international stars,” Dodanwela noted.

“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.”

What makes this edition special

First-ever Indian player participation in LPL history
Longest season at 24 consecutive days
Critical World Cup preparation window
More than 780 million viewers from last season
Three world-class venues across Sri Lanka
High-stakes format with four playoff matches

The countdown begins

With the addition of Indian cricketers, this December’s LPL promises to be the most competitive and watched edition yet. As teams gear up for the 2026 World Cup, the tournament offers a perfect blend of preparation, competition, and entertainment.

Player names and team rosters are expected to be announced in the coming weeks. Cricket fans across Asia are already marking their calendars for December 1.

The stage is set. The stakes are high. And for the first time, India’s finest will be part of the action.

Michael Gomes

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

Sports

Rio Ferdinand house for sale: Man Utd legend puts Kent mansion on market after Dubai move

Published

2 weeks ago

April 24, 2026

Michael Gomes

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Rio Ferdinand may be done with UK living, for now.

The former Manchester United star, 47, has listed his seven-bedroom Kent mansion for £10.5 million (Dh52 million), hinting his move to Dubai is permanent.

Set in the exclusive Farnborough Park estate, the 12,500 sq ft home features landscaped grounds, a private gym, grand reception spaces, and a luxury master suite with dual dressing rooms. He bought it in 2008 for around £2.7 million, meaning a potential £8 million profit, though tax could apply depending on residency status.

Ferdinand moved to Dubai last year with his wife Kate and their children. They are now living in a luxury villa in Al Barari.

He has been candid about the move, citing more family time, an improved lifestyle, and the appeal of a fresh start. “The lifestyle, safety and weather, it just works for us,” Ferdinand said in the report.

He’s not alone. Vincent Kompany is also reportedly selling his UK home, as more football names rethink where they’re based.

Sports

Big game tonight: Expect traffic delays around Dubai’s Al Wasl Club

Published

2 weeks ago

April 22, 2026

Michael Gomes

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Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has alerted motorists to expected traffic delays on key roads on Wednesday, April 22, due to the AFC Champions League 2 match taking place at Al Wasl Club.

The fixture between Qatar’s Al Ahli and Al Nassr of Saudi Arabia is part of the ongoing AFC Champions League 2, Asia’s second-tier continental competition, which has been drawing strong crowds across the region. Matches at this stage of the tournament typically attract large numbers of fans, especially when hosted in major cities like Dubai, leading to increased traffic around stadium zones.

Authorities expect congestion on roads leading to and around the stadium, particularly during pre-match and post-match hours, as supporters head to watch the game live.

Motorists are advised to plan their journeys, allow extra travel time, and consider alternative routes to avoid delays.

To help ease congestion, the RTA confirmed that additional parking spaces will be available behind the stadium, offering more options for those attending the match.

The advisory is part of ongoing efforts to manage traffic during major sporting events and ensure a smooth and comfortable travel experience for residents and visitors across Dubai.

News

Free 5KM run in Abu Ahabi, but expect road closures

Published

3 weeks ago

April 17, 2026

Michael Gomes

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If you’re driving around Abu Dhabi this weekend, you might want to plan, because several key roads are set to close.

The Run for the Nation 5km race is taking over Wahat Al Karama this Saturday, bringing together the community for a morning of fitness and fun.

But it also means temporary traffic disruptions you should know about.

Here’s what’s happening
Organised by Abu Dhabi Sports Council in partnership with the Zayed Charity Run, the event kicks off at 8am, and it’s completely free to join.

To keep runners safe, road closures will be in place from 5am to 10am around the area.
There are additional lane closures on E20 due to ongoing infrastructure works:

• Right lane towards Abu Dhabi closed from April 17 (2pm)- April 20 (5am)
• Entry & exit from Al Fursan Street closed from April 18-April 19

Expect delays around Al Fursan Street and Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street (E20).

What should motorists do
• Leave earlier than usual
• Follow diversion signs
• Avoid the area if possible during peak hours

While traffic may slow things down, the event is all about community, fitness, and bringing people together, a big win for Abu Dhabi’s active lifestyle push.

So whether you’re running or just commuting, be ready, plan smart, and stay moving.