Surat is gearing up for one of the most anticipated cricketing festivals of the year — the Indian Street Premier League (ISPL) 2026. The third edition of the star-studded tennis ball tournament will be played at the iconic Lalbhai Contractor Stadium from January 9 to February 6, 2026, bringing together Bollywood superstars, cricket legends, and young street cricketers from across India on one grand stage.
Bollywood Meets Street Cricket
This season, ISPL will witness the participation of some of India’s biggest film icons, including Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, Akshay Kumar, Ajay Devgn, Saif Ali Khan–Kareena Kapoor Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Suriya, and Ram Charan.
Each of these celebrities owns a franchise in the league, making the event a perfect blend of entertainment and sportsmanship.
The tournament will feature eight teams, each battling it out in 10-over tennis ball matches — a fast, action-packed format that promises excitement for players and fans alike.
Massive Player Response: Over 4.5 Million Registrations
The Indian Street Premier League 2026 has already created a massive buzz across India.
According to organizers, more than 4.5 million players have registered for selection. Trials are being conducted in over 102 cities, giving talented street cricketers from every corner of the country a chance to shine.
From this massive pool, 350 players will be shortlisted and included in the player auction, following a process similar to the IPL. Each team will have 18 players, including a mandatory two under-19 cricketers to promote young talent.
This season, the player salary cap has been increased from ₹1 crore to ₹1.5 crore, making ISPL 2026 the most lucrative street cricket tournament in India.
Star-Studded Lineup of Teams and Owners
The eight teams participating in the Indian Street Premier League 2026 and their celebrity owners are:
| Team Name | Owner(s) |
|---|---|
| Bangalore Strikers | Hrithik Roshan |
| Chennai Singam | Suriya |
| Falcon Raisers Hyderabad | Ram Charan |
| Tiger of Kolkata | Saif Ali Khan & Kareena Kapoor Khan |
| Maazi Mumbai | Amitabh Bachchan |
| Srinagar Veer | Akshay Kumar |
| Ahmedabad Lions | Ajay Devgn |
| New Delhi Warriors | Salman Khan |
During the tournament, fans can expect to see not just the team owners but also many renowned cricket legends and Bollywood celebrities cheering from the stands, adding a glamorous flair to the competitive atmosphere.
Surat’s Lalbhai Contractor Stadium Gears Up for the Big Event
The host venue, Lalbhai Contractor Stadium in Surat, is being specially upgraded for the Indian Street Premier League 2026.
Renovations are underway to enhance spectator comfort and infrastructure. The stadium will now have seating arrangements for 12,000 fans, along with revamped media boxes, VVIP enclosures, and a modern pavilion to host players and guests.
The opening ceremony will rival that of the IPL, with dazzling performances, fireworks, and appearances from Bollywood icons and top cricketers. Surat’s fans are eagerly waiting for this spectacle that promises to put the city on India’s cricketing map.
League Structure and Rewards
- Format: 10-over tennis ball matches
- Teams: 8
- Duration: January 9 – February 6, 2026
- Selection Trials: 102 cities
- Registered Players: Over 4.5 million
- Selected Players: 350 through auction
- Team Size: 18 players (including 2 U-19)
- Salary Cap: ₹1.5 crore per team
- Winning Prize: ₹1 crore for the champions and ₹50 lakh for the runners-up
The Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament will receive a Porsche 911 — one of the most prestigious prizes in Indian cricketing events.
History of ISPL: From Vision to Revolution
The Indian Street Premier League was established in 2024 with a vision to bridge the gap between street cricket and professional cricket.
The league has since gained immense popularity, offering talented street players an opportunity to showcase their skills on a national platform.
- Founded: 2024
- Brand Ambassador: Salman Khan
- Core Committee Members: Sachin Tendulkar, Ashish Sailer, Deepak Chauhan, Meenal Amol Kale, and Suraj Samant
- Chief Mentor: Ravi Shastri
With cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar and former India coach Ravi Shastri involved, the ISPL has earned credibility and respect among cricket fans and players alike.
Past Champions and Memorable Seasons
The league has already seen two successful editions:
- Season 1 Champion (2024): Tiger of Kolkata (Owned by Saif Ali Khan & Kareena Kapoor Khan)
- Season 2 Champion (2025): Maazi Mumbai (Owned by Amitabh Bachchan)
Both seasons witnessed thrilling finishes, packed stadiums, and millions of viewers tuning in for live action.
The upcoming 2026 edition is expected to surpass all previous seasons in scale, entertainment, and competition.
Also read: IPL 2026 Auction Date Fixed: December 13-15 Mini-Auction Likely in India
Broadcast and Digital Reach
To ensure nationwide access, Star Sports and Jio Hotstar will telecast every match live.
With these two major platforms on board, the Indian Street Premier League 2026 is expected to reach millions of viewers across India and abroad, turning local street heroes into household names.
Fans will also be able to follow exclusive behind-the-scenes content, player interviews, and live updates through ISPL’s official social media handles.
Surat Set to Host the Grand Cricket Carnival
For Surat, hosting the Indian Street Premier League 2026 is more than just a sporting event — it’s a moment of pride.
The city, known for its diamond and textile industries, will now shine as a cricketing hotspot, drawing fans, celebrities, and sponsors from all over the country.
From the buzzing selection trials to the glitzy opening ceremony, ISPL 2026 promises to celebrate India’s love for cricket, cinema, and street talent all in one spectacular event.
Conclusion
The Indian Street Premier League 2026 isn’t just another cricket tournament — it’s a movement that celebrates the heart of Indian cricket: the streets.
With top Bollywood superstars owning teams, millions of young players vying for selection, and world-class mentors like Sachin Tendulkar and Ravi Shastri guiding the league, ISPL 2026 is all set to take the nation by storm.
As the countdown to January 9, 2026 begins, cricket fans across India can look forward to a thrilling season of energy, passion, and entertainment — right from the streets to the stadium.
