Former India fast bowling great Zaheer Khan has become co-owner of the Lanka Premier League’s most successful franchise after Stockholm-based global sports ownership group Anchor Sports AB completed its acquisition of the four-time champions, the Jaffna Kings.
Following the takeover, the franchise has officially been renamed Anchor Jaffna Kings, ushering in a new era under its new ownership. Zaheer joins Anchor Sports owner Nagendra Siddoutam as co-owner as the group continues to strengthen its footprint in global franchise cricket.
The acquisition brings one of India’s most celebrated cricketers into the Lanka Premier League, with Zaheer adding decades of international experience to a team that has dominated the competition since its inception. The franchise has captured four LPL titles in five completed seasons and is once again among the leading contenders this year. Under the captaincy of Bhanuka Rajapaksa, the team currently occupies a place in the top two of the points table with four wins from six matches.
Speaking after the acquisition, Zaheer expressed his excitement about becoming part of Sri Lankan cricket through franchise ownership.
“I’ve always admired the calibre, innovation and variety of bowling talent that comes out of Sri Lanka, it’s a country I’ve visited, competed in, and hold very fond memories of. To now be part of Sri Lankan cricket as an owner is something I’m genuinely thrilled about, and I can’t wait to get started with the Anchor Jaffna Kings,” said Zaheer.
The deal also marks another step in the expansion of Anchor Sports’ international cricket portfolio. The group already owns the Antwerp Anchors in the European T20 Premier League, along with the Vancouver Anchors men’s and women’s teams competing in Canada’s Super 60 League.
The ownership change comes at a significant time for the franchise. Weeks earlier, former India Under-19 cricketer and former Jaffna Kings co-owner Manjot Kalra was arrested by Sri Lanka’s sports anti-corruption investigators over allegations of attempting to bribe a player.
Despite the off-field developments, the franchise remains one of the strongest teams in the ongoing Lanka Premier League season. With fresh ownership, a successful track record and a strong campaign already underway, the newly rebranded Anchor Jaffna Kings will look to build on their legacy and continue their dominance in Sri Lanka’s premier T20 competition.
