Sri Lanka’s first-ever franchise-based Ceylon Golf League launched
Sri Lanka’s fairways are about to come alive like never before with the launch of the Ceylon Golf League (CGL), the country’s first-ever franchise-format golf tournament. Slotted to take place from December 5 to 7, the historic Royal Colombo Golf Club (RCGC) will host eight city-based teams in a high-energy, three-day battle for national glory – blending the tradition of golf with the thrill of modern franchise sport.
CGL will transform golf into a spectator spectacle, bringing together fierce city rivalries, the drama of a live player auction, and the atmosphere of world-class hospitality. Teams will represent Colombo, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Trincomalee, Hambantota, Galle, Sigiriya, and Anuradhapura, with rosters built through a player auction that will see franchise owners bid for 14 players across seven handicap categories. Over three intense days, fans will witness fourball showdowns, strategic indies matchups, and finals that promise to deliver unforgettable moments on the green.
(From left): Shuayb Sangani (CGL Owner), Asanka Liyanage (AGM, Branch Banking and Title Partner, Sampath Private Banking), Mahela Jayawardena (CGL Owner), Sajeewa Wanaguru (Manager, Events and Engagements, Sampath Private Banking), Shyanika Hewage (Head of Private Banking), and Shamal Perera (CGL Owner)
All eight franchises have already been sold to private owners – a sign of the excitement and belief in CGL’s vision to elevate golf in Sri Lanka. Beyond the competition, the league will create a festival-like atmosphere, with premium hospitality experiences, on-ground entertainment, and opportunities for fans to connect with players. Excess funds from franchise bidding will go towards supporting community and sporting causes, ensuring the league’s impact extends beyond the course.
“The Ceylon Golf League is a fresh chapter for golf in Sri Lanka – one that blends tradition with the excitement of franchise sport. It’s a unique opportunity for corporates to align with a premium sporting property, connect with high-value audiences, and play a part in growing the game’s reach. With eight franchises already on board, the stage is set for a league that will deliver competition, prestige, and long-term value for everyone involved,” CGL stakeholder and cricket legend Mahela Jayawardena said, at the official launching ceremony held at Cinnamon Grand, Colombo.
The league also brings together a powerhouse lineup of partners who share the vision for a new era of Sri Lankan sport. Sampath Bank Private Banking joins as Title Partner, with Hutch
Sri Lanka as Powered By Partner and Mastercardas Event Partner. They are joined by Spinner as Energy Drink Partner, Sports Nutrition Hub as Hydration Partner, Marina Square as Property Partner, MPower Capital as Financial Services Partner, Isuzu as Automobile Partner, Cinnamon Grand Colombo as Hospitality Partner, and Ewis as Technology Partner.