Punjab Kings joins Sher-E-Punjab T20 League as Powered By Sponsor

MUMBAI: Punjab’s cricket pipeline is getting a power-up. Punjab Kings has come on board as the ‘Powered By’ sponsor of the Mankind Pharma Sher-E-Punjab T20 League, putting the franchise closer to the action when it comes to identifying and developing the state’s next generation of cricketers.

The partnership goes beyond putting a familiar franchise name alongside the tournament. For Punjab Kings, the league offers a chance to get closer to talent at an earlier stage — spotting players before they have already made their mark and helping strengthen the pathway from local cricket to the professional game.

Organised by the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) and exclusively managed by Servotech Sports and Entertainment, with DNA as the Technical Partner, the 2026 edition will run from August 30 to September 13 at the I.S. Bindra Stadium, Mohali.

The tournament will feature six teams playing 27 matches, bringing established names and emerging players together in what is designed to be a more direct shop window for Punjab’s cricketing talent.

Among the marquee players set to feature are Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, Arshdeep Singh, Prabhsimran Singh, Ramandeep Singh and Gurnoor Brar, alongside emerging cricketers from across the state.

Punjab has long been a fertile ground for cricketing talent, but the challenge is turning that talent into a sustained professional pipeline. The association with Punjab Kings aims to bring the franchise ecosystem closer to that process, with scouting, exposure and competitive opportunities becoming part of the league’s larger role.

Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer, Honorary Secretary, Punjab Cricket Association, said the state has consistently produced players for both Punjab and India, adding that the league is intended to strengthen opportunities for young talent at the grassroots level. He said Punjab Kings’ involvement further connects grassroots cricket with the professional game.

Amarjeet Mehta, President, Punjab Cricket Association, said the partnership would add value to the league by strengthening the link between emerging players and the professional cricket system. With leading players sharing the field with younger talent, the tournament could provide a more sustainable route for players looking to progress.

For Punjab Kings, the association also fits into its wider engagement in the state beyond cricket. The franchise has previously been involved in relief efforts following Punjab floods last year, as well as a classroom programme for children.

Satish Menon, CEO, Punjab Kings, said the franchise sees its role in Punjab as extending beyond match days and wants to help ensure that the next generation of players gets the platforms and support required to progress.

The league, meanwhile, is positioning itself as more than another T20 tournament on the calendar. By putting emerging cricketers in the same competitive environment as established names, it aims to give local talent a taste of professional cricket while giving franchises a closer look at players who could otherwise remain below the radar.

The Sher-E-Punjab T20 League 2026 will be played from August 30 to September 13 at the I.S. Bindra Stadium, Mohali. Tickets are available on District.