Kandy Royals have received a major boost ahead of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2026 playoffs, with Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi set to rejoin the franchise alongside fellow internationals Khushdil Shah and Hassan Nawaz.
The trio will bolster Kandy’s squad for the knockout stage as the Royals aim to mount a title challenge after securing a place in the playoffs under dramatic circumstances.
Afridi had temporarily left the tournament last week due to personal commitments, sparking speculation that his LPL campaign had come to an end. However, the Pakistan pace spearhead is now set to return for the business end of the competition after Kandy successfully booked their place in the knockout rounds.
The franchise has further strengthened its squad by bringing in Pakistan all-rounder Khushdil Shah and aggressive batter Hassan Nawaz. The additions are expected to improve both the team’s batting depth and overall balance ahead of the knockout fixtures.
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The Pakistani trio replaces Moeen Ali, Sediqullah Atal and Brandon McMullen, who have departed the squad after completing their commitments with the franchise.
Kandy’s qualification hopes appeared slim at one stage, but a rain-affected contest between Jaffna Kings and Dambulla Sixers ultimately worked in their favour, opening the door for them to advance to the next phase of the tournament.
The LPL 2026 playoffs are scheduled to begin on August 5 at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo.
The opening day will feature a Qualifier between Jaffna Kings and Galle Gallants, while Kandy Royals will take on Colombo KAPS in the Eliminator, with the winner keeping their title hopes alive.
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