Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has officially joined the Jaffna Kings for the upcoming edition of the Lanka Premier League (LPL). The announcement was formally made by the LPL franchise via a statement published on their verified social media platforms on Friday, confirming that the veteran cricketer has been acquired through a direct signing agreement ahead of the LPL 2026 tournament.
In their official social media release, the franchise welcomed the Bangladeshi player, stating:
“The Global T20 Maestro joins the Kings. Shakib Al Hasan has signed with Jaffna Kings ahead of LPL 2026. When the team requires stability, the runs flow. When the game demands a breakthrough, the wickets fall. Under pressure, when the stakes are highest, absolute composure prevails.”
The Jaffna Kings management further lauded the 39-year-old cricketer, describing him as one of the finest and most complete all-rounders in the history of Twenty20 cricket. The franchise emphasized that his inclusion would inject substantial tactical depth and experience into their already established playing line-up.
Shakib Al Hasan’s Historical Lanka Premier League Career
This direct signing marks Shakib’s second stint in Sri Lanka’s premier domestic Twenty20 franchise tournament. His historical footprint and career timeline within the Lanka Premier League are structured in the table below:
| Tournament Edition | Franchise Team | Acquisition Method | Operational Context & Role |
| LPL 2023 | Galle Titans | Standard Draft / Contract | Marked his debut appearance in the Sri Lankan franchise league. |
| LPL 2026 | Jaffna Kings | Pre-Draft Direct Signing | Acquired as a marquee international all-rounder to fortify the squad. |
Strategic Impact and Tournament Preparation
The direct pre-draft acquisition model allows LPL franchises to secure core international marquee players prior to the commencement of the official player auction and draft sessions. By securing Shakib’s services, the Jaffna Kings have consolidated their overseas options with a player who possesses extensive experience in global franchise leagues, including the Indian Premier League (IPL), the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), and the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
Shakib Al Hasan previously featured in the tournament during the 2023 edition, where he represented the Galle Titans. His return to the tournament under the Jaffna Kings banner comes as the franchise seeks to optimize its squad composition for the 2026 season. Further details regarding the complete squad line-up, coaching staff, and the official tournament itinerary are expected to be disclosed by the Lanka Premier League organizers in due course.