The Lanka Premier League (LPL) and the Dambulla Thunders franchised the team a day after the player auction due to Tamim Rahman, the team owner, being arrested in Colombo on Wednesday, May 22. In connection with corruption, Rahman was taken into custody by Colombo Police under the 2019 Prevention of Offenses Related to Sports Act.
“With immediate effect, the Lanka Premier League (LPL) has announced the Dambulla Thunders franchise’s demise. According to a statement from Sri Lanka Cricket, “This decision is the result of recent developments regarding the ownership of the franchise and the legal issues Tamim Rahman, Founder of Imperial Sports Group, is facing.”
“The integrity and seamless operation of the Lanka Premier League are paramount, even though the details of the accusations against Mr. Rahman are still unknown. By ensuring that all players follow the greatest standards of behavior and sportsmanship, this termination seeks to preserve the LPL’s ideals and reputation,” the statement continued.
The Dambulla franchise is currently without an owner. In the LPL 2024, Dambulla and Galle were the two franchises that had a new owner. Galle changed from being Gladiators to Marvels, and Dambulla changed from being called Aura to Thunders. “During this transition, we will continue to support all of our teams, players, and fans as we adhere to the highest standards of transparency and professionalism.” Anil Mohan, chairman of IPG Group, which holds LPL rights, was quoted in the SLC announcement.
The Imperial Sports Group, managed by Rahman, placed the highest bid for the Dambulla Thunders. Even though they managed to enlist a number of well-known figures, such as Mustafizur Rahman, Ibrahim Zadran, and Iftikhar Ahmed, the squad will now need to find a new owner as it is still uncertain what will happen to the franchise afterwards.
Along with Dilshan Madushanka, Nuwan Thushara, Akila Dananjaya, Danushka Gunathilaka, and Nuwan Pradeep, the team also has excellent Sri Lankan internationals.
