MUMBAI: Asian Television Network International Limited (ATN), Canada?s Largest South Asian broadcaster, has said it has secured the exclusive Canadian broadcast rights for the Sri Lanka Premier League for a period of seven years for all forms of broadcast.

The inaugural edition of the Sri Lankan premier league, which went underway on 11 August, will run till 31 August in Sri Lanka. The tournament features seven provincial teams at two venues: R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo and the Pallekele International Stadium in Kandy.

The new league features some of the best national and international players, including Tilakaratane Dilshan, Kumar Sangakara, Sanath Jayasuria, Muttiah Muralitharan, & Mahela Jayawardene from Sri Lanka; Chris Gayle & Shivnaraine Chanderpaul from West Indies; Shahid Afridi & Misbah Ul Haq from Pakistan; Tim Southee & Nathan McCullum from New Zealand; Albie Morkal from South Africa; and Dirk Nannes from Australia.

There will be a total of 24 matches including two semifinals and a final. The seven teams participating in the league are Nagenahira Nagas, Ruhuna Rhinos, Basnahira Bears, Kandurata Kites, Uthura Oryxes, Wayamba Wolves & Uva Unicorns.

"This is an exciting new opportunity to see top talent in premier league play. We are delighted to be able to bring this new league to Canadian fans," said ATN?s President and CEO Dr. Shan Chandrasekar.

Recently the Sri Lanka Cricket board auctioned the seven teams for over $30 million and all seven franchises were bought by Indian Business Enterprises. Some of the franchise owners include Wadhawan Holdings Private Limited, Number One Sports Consulting, Pearl Overseas Limited, Success Sports Private Limited and Indian Cricket Dundee Limited.

ESPN Star Sports holds the multi-platform rights for the SLPL in South Asia.