Shillong Premier League and Lanka Premier League kick off 2026 seasons

The Shillong Premier League (SPL) announced its 2026 fixtures, with defending champions Langsning FC opening the campaign against Sawmer SCC on 25 July. The league will feature 12 teams, run a single‑leg format of 45 matches, and apply new 2026‑27 Laws of the Game such as a 10‑second substitute rule and a red‑card offense for covering the mouth during on‑field communication.

The Lanka Premier League (LPL) also began its 2026 season on 17 July at Colombo’s Sinhalese Sports Club, staging a clash between defending champions Jaffna Kings and runners‑up Galle Gallants. Both squads retain marquee players, with the Kings led by captain Bhanuka Rajapaksa and featuring Shakib Al Hasan, while the Gallants are captained by Dasun Shanaka and include Rassie van der Dussen. The match is expected to be contested on a true‑bounce pitch with scores in the 165‑180 range.