LPL rights holder IPG welcomes new ownership, calling it fresh vision for the iconic franchise

Zaheer Khan, a former fast bowler for India, became a co-owner of the four-time Lanka Premier League (LPL) champions Jaffna Kings on Tuesday. After completing the purchase of the Kings, the Stockholm-based international sports ownership organization Anchor Sports AB formally changed the team's name to Anchor Jaffna Kings.

As the company continues to grow its footprint in international franchise cricket, Zaheer becomes a co-owner with Anchor Sports owner Nagendra Siddoutam. With 11 points from eight games, the Kings are now leading the standings.

Welcoming the new ownership, Anil Mohan Sankhdhar, Founder and CEO of Innovative Production Group (IPG), the official rights holder of the Lanka Premier League, said: "We welcome Anchor Sports on board and to the LPL family as they take over the iconic Jaffna franchise. We are confident that Anchor Sports will build on this remarkable legacy, bringing fresh vision and energy to the franchise."

The franchise agreement between Sri Lanka Cricket and Sports Commune, the Kings' owner, was dissolved. After former India U19 cricketer Manjot Kalra, one of the team's co-owners, was detained by the Sri Lanka Sports Investigation Unit last week on suspicion of fixing, the ownership change became necessary.

"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," stated Zaheer Khan, the new co-owner of Kings. I'm truly excited to be a part of Sri Lankan cricket as an owner, and I can't wait to join the Anchor Jaffna Kings."