Shaheen Shah Afridi Joins Vijay Shankar, Moeen Ali at Kandy Royals; Set to Train Under Sri Lanka Great Chaminda Vaas

Pakistan pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi is set to make his Lanka Premier League (LPL) debut after joining Kandy Royals for the 2026 season, adding further star power to one of the tournament’s strongest squads. He joins an impressive lineup featuring Moeen Ali, Vijay Shankar, Angelo Mathews, and Wanindu Hasaranga, highlighting the league’s growing appeal among international cricketers.

One of the most exciting storylines of this year’s LPL will see Afridi work under Sri Lankan pace legend Chaminda Vaas, the head coach of Kandy Royals. The Pakistan ODI captain revealed that he has already begun learning the finer aspects of left-arm swing bowling from Vaas, including wrist position and seam presentation, as he prepares for his maiden LPL campaign.

The signing further reinforces the LPL’s reputation as one of Asia’s fastest-growing T20 leagues. This season attracted more than 650 overseas player registrations from 21 countries, reflecting the tournament’s increasing global recognition while continuing to provide Sri Lankan players with the opportunity to compete alongside world-class talent.

Kandy Royals owner Rishikumar Nadarajah welcomed Afridi’s arrival, describing him as one of the world’s premier fast bowlers whose leadership and championship-winning experience will strengthen the Royals’ bid for the title. Afridi, who captains Pakistan’s ODI side and has enjoyed significant success in franchise cricket, is expected to play a key role in the team’s campaign