The Lanka Premier League (LPL) has stirred controversy by implementing a requirement that players must have a significant social media following to qualify for participation in its sixth season, scheduled from July 10 to August 5, 2026. According to a report from NewsWire, players in the top two categories, Icon and Star, must have at least 250,000 followers on social media, alongside specific cricketing experience. The Icon category requires a player to have 75 T20 international appearances, 100 franchise matches globally, and 30 games in the last 18 months. The Star category has similar follower requirements but lowers the cricket experience needed. Critics have expressed skepticism about the regulations, questioning whether they are genuine or merely a publicity stunt to draw attention away from the Indian Premier League. The LPL's own social media presence, with fewer than 100,000 followers, contrasts sharply with the expectations set for players. The salary for players varies by category, with Icon and Star players earning between $60,000 and $80,000, while Gold and Classic players earn $30,000 and $20,000, respectively. This unusual criterion has led to discussions on social media about the implications for player selection and the league's authenticity.