Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan is the latest overseas signing for the Kandy Tuskers in the Lanka Premier League (LPL).

Kandy has West Indies legend Chris Gayle, local icon Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis, Nuwan Pradeep and England right-arm fast bowler Liam Plunkett among others in the team. Former Sri Lankan skipper Hashan Tillakaratne is part of the Kandy coaching staff.

Welcoming the all-rounder, Kandy Tuskers owner Sohail Khan said, “Irfan’s inclusion will not only add to the firepower of the squad, but his experience will be a huge asset to the team.” Abbas Muni is also a co-owner of the Kandy team.

“I am extremely excited to be part of the Kandy franchise in the LPL. We have some exciting names in the team, and I am looking forward to the experience,” said Irfan Pathan.

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) VP and LPL Tournament Director Ravin Wickramaratne said, “Irfan Pathan is an exciting all-rounder and I am sure the fans will be happy to see him in action for Kandy in the LPL.”

Dubai-based promoters, IPG CEO Anil Mohan said, “Irfan Pathan not only brings cricketing experience to the Kandy franchise and the LPL, but he adds a lot of glamour to the event with his personality. I am extremely glad that he agreed to be part of the LPL.”

The LPL is scheduled to be played from 21 November to 13 December at two venues — Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium (MRICS) in Hambantota and Pallekele International Cricket Stadium (PICS) in Kandy.

In the LPL, five franchise teams, named after Colombo, Kandy, Galle, Dambulla and Jaffna, will compete in 23 matches over a 15-day period for the title. Colombo Kings will take on Dambulla Hawks in the opening match in Hambantota on 21 November. The final will be played on 13 December with 14 December as a reserve day.

Possibility of LPL being postponed