The Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) is the ultimate stage where district talent meets international experience. Since its inception in 2016, the league has grown into one of the most competitive T20 tournaments in India. The competition features eight city based franchises representing different regions of Tamil Nadu, from the coastal town of Thoothukudi to the textile hub of Tiruppur.
The 2025 season was a landmark year in TNPL history. The Idream Tiruppur Tamizhans, often considered the dark horses, stunned the cricketing world by lifting their maiden title with a dominant 118 run victory over the Dindigul Dragons in the final. As we look ahead to 2026, the rivalry is fiercer than ever.
On this page, you will find detailed profiles of all eight teams, their leadership groups, and their journey in the league so far.
List of TNPL Franchises (2026 Season)
Here is the snapshot of the eight teams competing for the prestigious trophy.
| Team Name | Home City | Captain (2025) | Titles Won |
| Idream Tiruppur Tamizhans | Tiruppur | Sai Kishore | 1 (2025) |
| Chepauk Super Gillies | Chennai | Baba Aparajith | 4 (2017, 19, 21, 22) |
| Lyca Kovai Kings | Coimbatore | Shahrukh Khan | 2 (2022, 2023) |
| Dindigul Dragons | Dindigul | Ravichandran Ashwin | 1 (2024) |
| Nellai Royal Kings | Tirunelveli | Arun Karthik | 0 |
| Siechem Madurai Panthers | Madurai | Hari Nishaanth | 1 (2018) |
| Salem Spartans | Salem | Shijit Chandran | 1 (as Tuti Patriots) |
| Trichy Grand Cholas | Trichy | Antony Dhas | 0 |
Teams:
Idream Tiruppur Tamizhans
The current kings of the TNPL. For years, the Tiruppur Tamizhans were the team that showed promise but failed to deliver in crucial moments. That changed in 2025. Under the inspirational leadership of Sai Kishore and the explosive batting of Tushar Raheja, they dominated the season. Their victory in the 2025 final was the most one sided in league history. They rely heavily on their spin attack, which is arguably the best in the competition. The franchise represents the hard working spirit of the textile city and has finally etched its name in gold.
Chepauk Super Gillies
The Chepauk Super Gillies are the most successful team in the history of the league. With four titles in their cabinet, they are the undisputed heavyweights of the TNPL. Owned by the Daily Thanthi group, the team has always had a strong core of Chennai based players. They are known for their tactical brilliance and ability to defend low totals at their home ground, the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Although they have faced stiff competition in the last two seasons, you can never write off the Super Gillies in a big tournament.
Lyca Kovai Kings
If there is one team that plays a brand of cricket similar to the IPL, it is the Lyca Kovai Kings. Owned by Lyca Productions, this team brings flair and entertainment to the field. Led by the dynamic Shahrukh Khan, they are known for their power hitting. They were the champions in 2023 and shared the trophy in 2022. The Kovai Kings have consistently produced players who go on to fetch big bucks in the IPL auction, making them a favorite among scouts.
Dindigul Dragons
The Dindigul Dragons are the perennial contenders of the TNPL. Led by the legendary Ravichandran Ashwin, they finally broke their “runners up jinx” by winning the title in 2024. They followed it up with another strong performance in 2025, finishing as finalists. The team is known for its smart cricket and innovative field placements. Playing at their home ground in Natham gives them a massive advantage due to their deep understanding of the pitch conditions.
Nellai Royal Kings
Representing the southern district of Tirunelveli, the Nellai Royal Kings are the heavyweights who are yet to lift the trophy. They have been incredibly consistent, reaching the playoffs multiple times. Their batting lineup is often their biggest strength, capable of chasing down any target. With the wind factor at their home ground in Sankarnagar favoring their style of play, fans believe it is only a matter of time before the Royal Kings claim their first title.
Siechem Madurai Panthers
The Madurai Panthers are known for their fighting spirit. After a tough start in the initial seasons, they roared back to win the title in 2018. The team represents the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu and plays with immense passion. Their bowling attack has traditionally been their strong suit, often unearthing mystery spinners who trouble the best batters in the state. They will be looking to bounce back in 2026 after a mixed run in recent years.
Salem Spartans
Previously known as the Tuti Patriots (who won the inaugural season in 2016), the franchise was rebranded as the Salem Spartans after a change in ownership. Since moving to Salem, the team has struggled to replicate its early success but has shown flashes of brilliance. With the world class Salem Cricket Foundation ground as their home base, the Spartans have the infrastructure to build a championship winning squad. They are the team to watch out for if you love underdog stories.
Trichy Grand Cholas
Formerly known as Ruby Trichy Warriors and Ba11sy Trichy, the team was rebranded as Trichy Grand Cholas to honor the history of the region. While they are yet to win a title, they have been runners up once. The franchise focuses heavily on local talent from the central districts of Tamil Nadu. They are known for producing gritty cricketers who fight hard for every run. The 2026 season presents a fresh opportunity for the Grand Cholas to make a mark.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who won the TNPL 2025?
The Idream Tiruppur Tamizhans won the 2025 season, defeating Dindigul Dragons in the final.
Which team has won the most TNPL titles?
Chepauk Super Gillies is the most successful team with 4 titles (2017, 2019, 2021, and 2022 shared).
Does MS Dhoni own a TNPL team?
No, MS Dhoni does not own a team. However, he has attended several TNPL matches to support the league and his CSK teammates.
What happened to the Tuti Patriots?
The franchise ownership changed, and the team was rebranded. The slot is currently occupied by the Salem Spartans.
Are IPL players allowed to play in TNPL?
Yes, players from Tamil Nadu who play in the IPL (like R Ashwin, Shahrukh Khan, Sai Kishore, and T Natarajan) regularly captain and play for their respective TNPL franchises when available.