A Sweden-based sports ownership group co-owned by former Indian fast bowler Zaheer Khan has acquired the Lanka Premier League's Jaffna Kings franchise, rebranding it as Anchor Jaffna Kings following the removal of the previous ownership.
Anchor Sports AB, a Stockholm-headquartered company co-owned by Zaheer Khan and businessman Nagendra Siddoutam, has completed the acquisition of the Jaffna Kings, a franchise in Sri Lanka's premier domestic T20 competition. The takeover marks the end of a transitional period during which the team operated under the joint control of Sri Lanka Cricket and the league's rights holder, Innovation Production Group.
The change in ownership occurred swiftly following the removal of previous franchise holders Sports Commune less than two weeks earlier. That removal came after co-owner Manjot Kalra faced arrest in relation to alleged match-fixing allegations, while co-owner Mayank Goel's current whereabouts remain unaccounted for. Prior to the transition, the franchise had been managed directly by the governing bodies to ensure operational continuity.
Despite the governance challenges off the field, Jaffna Kings demonstrated strong competitive performance during the most recent LPL season, finishing atop the league standings. The franchise maintains the strongest historical record in the tournament, having claimed four titles across five completed editions of the competition.
Anchor Sports AB already holds ownership interests in other cricket ventures, including teams in Belgium's European T20 Premier League and Canada's Super60 League. Khan expressed enthusiasm about his entry into Sri Lankan cricket ownership, noting his long-standing respect for the nation's bowling expertise. Tournament leadership, represented by LPL Tournament Director Samantha Dodanwela, responded positively to the development, suggesting that Khan's involvement would strengthen the league while offering mentorship opportunities for emerging Sri Lankan cricketers.
