Bathinda, August 26, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Punjab is set to host the Sher-e-Punjab League, a new cricket tournament modelled on the lines of the Indian Premier League (IPL), with six teams from across the state set to compete, Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) president Amarjit Mehta said on Wednesday.
The teams representing Bathinda, Amritsar, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Mohali and Fazilka will participate in the league. The jersey of Bathinda Royals was unveiled in Bathinda on Wednesday, with Mehta sharing details about the tournament and its objectives.
Mehta said the league aims to provide Punjab’s emerging cricketers with a high-level platform to showcase their abilities alongside national and international players.
“Punjab has no shortage of talent. What is needed is the right platform, better facilities and opportunities for talented players to prove themselves at a higher level. The Sher-e-Punjab League is an important step in that direction,” he said.
He added that playing alongside experienced cricketers would allow young and district-level players to learn from them and build confidence.
For Bathinda Royals, young batsman Harnoor Pannu will open the innings, while Gurnoor Brar, who is currently playing in the IPL in Sri Lanka, will lead the side. Punjab captain Uday Saharan and Bathinda player Abir Kohli will also turn out for the team.
Bathinda Royals owner Mandeep Malik, opener Harnoor Pannu, batting coach Manish and bowling coach TP Singh were present at the jersey launch.
Mehta said the league had been designed with high-level standards similar to the IPL and that the required approval had been obtained from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
All matches will be broadcast live on Sony TV, giving cricket fans an opportunity to watch Punjab-based teams and players compete on a wider platform.
Mehta said the league was being launched on a larger scale with the support of the Punjab government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann. He said the PCA and the state government were working together to take cricket in Punjab to new heights.
“This league is not limited to cricket competitions. It is a major initiative linked to the future of Punjab’s young players. Our endeavour is to identify hidden cricket talent in every district and provide it with opportunities to progress,” he said.
The inaugural edition will be played at the PCA Stadium in Mohali. Mehta said the organisers plan to take the league to other cities in Punjab in subsequent years, including Bathinda and Amritsar.
He also indicated that the number of teams could be increased in the future, enabling players from more districts to participate and showcase their talent.
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