Mustafizur Rahman's Franchise in LPL Changes Hands

Mustafizur Rahman's franchise in the Lanka Premier League (LPL) has undergone a significant change. Originally, Mustafizur was signed by the Dambulla Thunders for $450,000 as a foreign icon player. However, the franchise's contract was later annulled, and it has now been taken over by new ownership, along with a change in its name. The team will now participate in this season as the Dambulla Sixers.

The upheaval started when Dambulla Thunders' owner, Tamim Rahman, was arrested by the Sri Lankan police on May 21. Tamim, a British citizen of Bangladeshi descent, was detained under Sri Lanka's sports law on suspicion of being involved in match-fixing. Consequently, the LPL authorities terminated the contract with Dambulla Thunders.

In less than a month, Mustafizur's franchise found a new owner. The team is now owned by Sequoia Incorporation, a civil engineering firm based in Los Angeles. Along with the change in ownership, the franchise's name has also been changed from Dambulla Thunders to Dambulla Sixers.

The LPL organizers are pleased with the acquisition of new owners for the Dambulla franchise. Tournament director Samantha Dodanwala expressed satisfaction, stating,

"We are delighted that new ownership has taken over Dambulla. Mr. De Silva's background in first-class cricket will undoubtedly add new value to the franchise. He understands the cricketing pulse of our country."

The Lanka Premier League is set to commence on July 1, with matches scheduled to be held in Pallekele, Dambulla, and Colombo.