The Colombo Kaps franchise has come under new ownership ahead of the upcoming Lanka Premier League Season 6. Moreover, LPL organisers IPG Global confirmed on Tuesday, May 19, that Witness Sports Alliance LLC will take over the franchise. The Colombo-based side was formerly known as Colombo Strikers before its recent rebrand.
Additionally, Saranyan Palaniswamy and KC Shyam Kangayan will lead the new ownership group. The LPL Season 6 is set to run from July 7 to August 8 this year. Therefore, the franchise switch arrives just weeks before the latest edition of Sri Lanka’s premier T20 league.
Who Are the New Owners of Colombo Kaps in LPL 2026
Witness Sports Alliance LLC now hold the reins of one of the LPL’s most historic franchises. The previous owners were linked to Murfad Mustafa, a Dubai-based businessman from Kannur, Kerala. He held connections to the Faza Group, which had bankrolled the franchise during its Colombo Strikers era.
However, the new ownership group brings a different strategic direction to the side. Furthermore, the leadership team has pledged to build a disciplined and modern franchise. Their stated focus is on fan engagement, support for Sri Lankan cricket, and long-term value creation within the LPL ecosystem.
Kusal Mendis and Kamindu Mendis Pre-Signed for Colombo Kaps
Colombo Kaps have already locked in two of Sri Lanka’s biggest names ahead of LPL 2026. Notably, the franchise has pre-signed wicketkeeper-batter Kusal Mendis to anchor the top order. Additionally, all-rounder Kamindu Mendis has also joined the side as part of the early squad strategy.
As a result, the franchise enters the new season with a strong local core in place. Both players have been in fine touch across formats over the past year. Therefore, their inclusion gives Colombo Kaps a credible foundation to build a competitive squad around.
LPL Officials Welcome New Colombo Kaps Ownership Group
LPL director Samantha Dodanwela welcomed the new ownership in an official statement on Tuesday. He described Colombo as an important cricketing centre and praised the new owners for stepping forward. Meanwhile, IPG Global Founder and Chairman Anil Mohan added his backing to the development.
He said the franchise is well positioned to build a competitive team with committed ownership and strong local players already in place. Consequently, the Colombo Kaps switch is expected to add further strength and excitement to the upcoming LPL season. Furthermore, the change comes during a period of clear ambition for the league across ownership and commercial fronts.
