PSL set to expand with two new teams from next edition

The 11th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), set to be played in 2026, may feature eight teams, according to tournament CEO Salman Naseer.

The first edition of the league was staged in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 2016 due to security concerns, but it is staged in Pakistan, where it vows to strengthen its commercial appeal and competitiveness.

In the inaugural edition, PSL featured five teams – Islamabad United, Karachi Kings, Lahore Qalandars, Peshawar Zalmi and Quetta Gladiators – before being expanded to six sides with the inclusion of Multan Sultans in 2018.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has also stated that PSL 10 will be the last featuring six teams. Two more teams would be added in 2026.

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The CEO of PSL announced that the league will expand by adding two more teams by the end of this year.

“By the end of this year, we might get two more teams,” Naseer told local media on Thursday.

“We started at a time when no cricket was happening in Pakistan. The challenge was to bring it back.”

“Now that we’ve successfully brought cricket back to traditional centres, the next step is expanding beyond these four cities (Lahore, Karachi, Rawalpindi and Multan),” he said.

Salman Naseer also mentioned that adding two more teams would be an interesting challenge, highlighting the potential for a larger tournament window.

“This year will be an interesting test, and with more teams, we anticipate a bigger window,” Naseer added.

“Some of our rights are up for valuation after this PSL. A lot will depend on the data we gather,” he concluded.

Notably, the January-February window of the Pakistan Super League now faces strong competition from South Africa’s (SA T20) and the UAE’s International League T20 (ILT20).

Additionally, its value will be influenced by post-season data as broadcasting rights are auctioned.

Read: PCB announces schedule of PSL 10 trophy tour

PCB announces schedule of PSL 10 trophy tour

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced the schedule of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 trophy tour on Friday, with the coveted silverware to travel 11 cities across the country.

“The first-ever trophy tour in the history of PSL will commence today from Hyderabad and Karachi, with ‘Luminara’ scheduled to travel to 11 cities across Pakistan till 29 March,” the PCB stated in a press release.

It’s worth noting that season 10 of the PSL is scheduled to take place in four cities—Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi—from 11 April to 18 May.

In the first leg of the trophy tour, the Luminara Trophy will be displayed at various locations across Hyderabad and Karachi till 15 March.

Following Hyderabad and Karachi, the trophy will travel to Lahore, Multan, Bahawalpur, Faisalabad, Peshawar and Islamabad.

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The second leg of the PSL 10 trophy tour will be announced in due course.

“The PSL trophy tour is a celebration of Pakistan’s rich culture, its diverse communities and most importantly, its deep-rooted passion for cricket,” said PSL Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Salman Naseer.

“The tour aims to fulfill our desire to increase the physical reach of the HBL PSL throughout Pakistan.

“In the first leg, the trophy will be displayed from the vibrant streets of Karachi to the historic locations of Lahore and will also showcase the breathtaking landscapes of Pakistan, with more historic and iconic locations to follow.

“This trophy tour is our way of giving back to the fans, who have been the heart and soul of HBL PSL over the last decade. Their unwavering support fuels the passion of our players and makes this league one of the best in the world.”

PSL 10 ‘Luminara’ Trophy tour schedule

  • 14 March – Hyderabad
  • 14-15 March – Karachi
  • 16-17 March – Lahore
  • 18 March – Multan
  • 19 March – Bahawalpur
  • 20 March – Faisalabad
  • 22 March – Peshawar
  • 23 March – Islamabad

READ: PCB announces free entry for Fans for eight National T20 Cup matches

PSL 10 trophy unveiled in style at Karachi’s coastal waters

KARACHI: The glittering trophy of the Pakistan Super League season (PSL) 10 has been unveiled in style here at the coastal waters of the metropolitan city on Thursday.

A specialist diver unveiled the new PSL Trophy, named ‘Luminara’, in style from the Arabian Sea.

The trophy revelation was announced on the official Pakistan Super League page, celebrating a decade of the PSL.

The silverware was showcased in a three-minute video filmed in the coastal waters of Karachi. A professional diver, aided by the Pakistan Navy, retrieved a treasure chest and presented the trophy to the PSL stakeholders.

The promotional event for the unveiling included PCB officials, such as chairman Mohsin Naqvi, representatives from various franchises, and well-known cricketers like Sarfaraz Ahmed and Rumman Raees.

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The name “Luminara” comes from the Latin words “luminare,” which means ‘torch,’ and “lumens,” which means ‘light.’

The PSL 10 will begin from Friday, 11 April with defending champions Islamabad United taking on two times champions Lahore Qalandars at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

The six-team tournament will see 34 matches from 11 April to 18 May, with Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium set to host 13 matches, including two Eliminators and the final.

Also, the upcoming edition will feature an exhibition match, which will be played on 8 April in Peshawar. The teams of the match will be confirmed in due course.

According to the PSL 10 schedule, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium will host 11 matches, including Qualifier 1 on 13 May. Karachi’s National Bank Stadium and Multan Cricket Stadium will host five matches each.

The marquee event will also feature three double-headers, with two matches on weekends (Saturday) and one on a national holiday (Labour Day).

Karachi Kings, the winners of the league’s fifth edition, will begin their campaign on 12 April in their own backyard against runners-up of the last edition, Multan Sultans.

The first PSL 10 match in Multan will be played on 22 April between the Multan Sultans and Lahore Qalandars.

The newly constructed Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium will welcome the tenth edition of the PSL on 24 April with home side Qalandars, winners of the seventh and eighth editions, taking on Peshawar Zalmi.

Peshawar Zalmi, champions of the PSL 2017, will play their five matches at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, while the winners of the fourth edition, Quetta Gladiators, will play five matches at the Gaddafi Stadium.

Read: PCB Chairman intervenes over reduced match fees for domestic cricketers

Azhar Mahmood bids farewell as Islamabad United announce new bowling coach for PSL 10

Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Islamabad United revealed their new bowling coach on Wednesday after Azhar Mahmood departed, ahead of the upcoming 10th edition of the league.

Three-time PSL winner Islamabad United parted ways with Azhar due to his commitment with the Pakistan men’s cricket team.

The former bowling all-rounder has been replaced by Ian Buttler, who played eight Tests, 26 ODIs, and 19 T20Is for New Zealand from 2002 to 2013.

“Islamabad United, the most successful franchise in Pakistan Super League (PSL) history, is pleased to announce Ian Butler as the team’s bowling coach for PSL 10,” United said in a statement.

“At the same time, the franchise bids farewell to Azhar Mahmood, who is currently working with the Pakistan national team.”

“Azhar played a key role in Islamabad United’s success both as a player and a coach, winning PSL 1 in 2016 as a player and as an assistant coach in 2024,” the statement added.

Ian Butler expressed his excitement after the appointment as bowling coach of Islamabad United.

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“I’m really excited to be part of Islamabad United for PSL 10. This will be my first experience coaching in Pakistan, and I’ve heard great things about the passion for cricket here.”

“Islamabad United has a fantastic legacy in the PSL, and I’m looking forward to working with the talented bowling group to help the team push for another title,” he said.

Former pacer also lauded Azhar Mahmood’s services for the franchise and expressed his hope of building on his work.

“I’d also like to acknowledge Azhar Mahmood, who has done a fantastic job with this team, and I hope to continue building on that,” he concluded.

Read: Quetta Gladiators name Sarfaraz Ahmed as team director for PSL 10

Quetta Gladiators name Sarfaraz Ahmed as team director for PSL 10

Former captain of Pakistan, Sarfaraz Ahmed, has been appointed as the team director of Quetta Gladiators ahead of the 2025 Pakistan Super League (PSL 10).

While announcing his appointment, Nadeem Umar, franchise owner, expressed his confidence in Sarfaraz’s ability to excel in the role.

Sarfaraz Ahmed has been a key player for the Gladiators since the league began. The wicket-keeper batter led the team to its only PSL title in 2019.

The PSL 10 will begin from Friday, 11 April with defending champions Islamabad United taking on two times champions Lahore Qalandars at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

The six-team tournament will see 34 matches from 11 April to 18 May, with Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium set to host 13 matches, including two Eliminators and the final.

Also, the upcoming edition will feature an exhibition match, which will be played on 8 April in Peshawar. The teams of the match will be confirmed in due course.

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According to the PSL 10 schedule, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium will host 11 matches, including Qualifier 1 on 13 May. Karachi’s National Bank Stadium and Multan Cricket Stadium will host five matches each.

The marquee event will also feature three double-headers, with two matches on weekends (Saturday) and one on a national holiday (Labour Day).

Karachi Kings, the winners of the league’s fifth edition, will begin their campaign on 12 April in their own backyard against runners-up of the last edition, Multan Sultans.

The first PSL 10 match in Multan will be played on 22 April between the Multan Sultans and Lahore Qalandars.

The newly constructed Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium will welcome the tenth edition of the PSL on 24 April with home side Qalandars, winners of the seventh and eighth editions, taking on Peshawar Zalmi.

Peshawar Zalmi, champions of the PSL 2017, will play their five matches at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, while the winners of the fourth edition, Quetta Gladiators, will play five matches at the Gaddafi Stadium.

Read: Bangladesh’s Mahmudullah Riyad retires from international cricket

PCB confirms exhibition match in Peshawar ahead of PSL 10

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Friday confirmed that an exhibition cricket match will be played in Peshawar before the commencement of Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 10.

The cricket board revealed the schedule of the PSL 10 earlier today, revealing that the xi-team event will run from 11 April to 18 May.

While announcing the schedule, the PCB confirmed that Peshawar would host an exhibition match, giving cricket fans in the city a thrilling spectacle.

“Also, the upcoming edition will feature an exhibition match, which will be played on 8 April in Peshawar. The teams of the match will be confirmed in due course,” the PCB stated in a press release.

According to sources, the upcoming match is scheduled to take place at the Arbab Niaz Stadium, a historic venue currently undergoing significant renovation.

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The construction team is diligently working to complete the improvements on time, ensuring that the stadium will be fully equipped and ready to host the exhibition match before PSL 10.

This strategic move is part of the PCB’s broader initiative to reintroduce top-tier cricket to Peshawar, aiming to reignite the passion of local fans and draw them back into the thrilling atmosphere of live cricket.

This wouldn’t be the first time PCB has organized an exhibition match before the PSL. Back in 2023, a similar game was held in Quetta, which garnered significant attention and excitement from cricket enthusiasts.

For the unversed, Arbab Niaz Stadium was a prominent venue for international cricket two decades ago. However, due to the political situation in the region, it has not hosted any international matches since 2006.

The last international match held at Arbab Niaz Stadium was an ODI between the arch-rivals India and Pakistan.

READ: Senior Pakistan players likely to be rested for New Zealand tour: sources

PSL 10 to commence from 11 April as PCB reveals schedule

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), on Friday, revealed the schedule of the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 10, starting from 11 April 2025.

The PSL 10 will begin from Friday, 11 April with defending champions Islamabad United taking on two times champions Lahore Qalandars at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

The six-team tournament will see 34 matches from 11 April to 18 May, with Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium set to host 13 matches, including two Eliminators and the final.

Also, the upcoming edition will feature an exhibition match, which will be played on 8 April in Peshawar. The teams of the match will be confirmed in due course.

According to the PSL 10 schedule, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium will host 11 matches, including Qualifier 1 on 13 May. Karachi’s National Bank Stadium and Multan Cricket Stadium will host five matches each.

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The marquee event will also feature three double-headers, with two matches on weekends (Saturday) and one on a national holiday (Labour Day).

Karachi Kings, the winners of the league’s fifth edition, will begin their campaign on 12 April in their own backyard against runners-up of the last edition, Multan Sultans.

The first PSL 10 match in Multan will be played on 22 April between the Multan Sultans and Lahore Qalandars.

The newly constructed Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium will welcome the tenth edition of the PSL on 24 April with home side Qalandars, winners of the seventh and eighth editions, taking on Peshawar Zalmi.

Peshawar Zalmi, champions of the PSL 2017, will play their five matches at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, while the winners of the fourth edition, Quetta Gladiators, will play five matches at the Gaddafi Stadium.

psl-10-to-commence-pcb-reveals-schedule

“We are thrilled to officially announce the schedule for the historic 10th edition of the HBL Pakistan Super League. Over the past decade, the HBL PSL has grown into a globally recognised tournament, showcasing the best of Pakistan’s cricketing talent,” said PSL Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Salman Naseer.

“The fans in this year’s tournament will not only see high-profile international cricketers but will also witness 34 high-octane matches across four major cities—Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi.

“As part of our commitment to expanding the reach of the HBL PSL, we are delighted to host an exhibition match in Peshawar before the start of the tournament, which is a significant step in bringing top-tier cricket to Peshawar, a city with a deep-rooted love for the game.

“We remain dedicated to enhancing the experience for players, fans, and stakeholders, who have witnessed some breathtaking contests in the league over the years.”

Schedule of PSL 10

11 April – Islamabad United v Lahore Qalandars, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium

12 April – Peshawar Zalmi v Quetta Gladiators, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium; Karachi Kings v Multan Sultans, National Bank Stadium, Karachi

13 April – Quetta Gladiators v Lahore Qalandars, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium

14 April – Islamabad United v Peshawar Zalmi, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium

15 April – Karachi Kings v Lahore Qalandars, National Bank Stadium, Karachi

16 April – Islamabad United v Multan Sultans, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium

18 April – Karachi Kings v Quetta Gladiators, National Bank Stadium, Karachi

19 April – Peshawar Zalmi v Multan Sultans, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium

20 April – Karachi Kings v Islamabad United, National Bank Stadium, Karachi

21 April – Karachi Kings v Peshawar Zalmi, National Bank Stadium, Karachi

22 April – Multan Sultans v Lahore Qalandars, Multan Cricket Stadium

23 April – Multan Sultans v Islamabad United, Multan Cricket Stadium

24 April – Lahore Qalandars v Peshawar Zalmi, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore

25 April – Quetta Gladiators v Karachi Kings, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore

26 April – Lahore Qalandars v Multan Sultans, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore

27 April – Quetta Gladiators v Peshawar Zalmi, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore

29 April – Quetta Gladiators v Multan Sultans, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore

30 April – Lahore Qalandars v Islamabad United, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore

1 May – Multan Sultans v Karachi Kings, Multan Cricket Stadium; Lahore Qalandars v Quetta Gladiators, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore

2 May – Peshawar Zalmi v Islamabad United, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore

3 May – Quetta Gladiators v Islamabad United, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore

4 May – Lahore Qalandars v Karachi Kings, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore

5 May – Multan Sultans v Peshawar Zalmi, Multan Cricket Stadium

7 May – Islamabad United v Quetta Gladiators, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium

8 May – Peshawar Zalmi v Karachi Kings, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium

9 May – Peshawar Zalmi v Lahore Qalandars, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium

10 May – Multan Sultans v Quetta Gladiators, Multan Cricket Stadium; Islamabad United v Karachi Kings, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium

13 May – Qualifier 1, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium

14 May – Eliminator 1, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore

16 May – Eliminator 2, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore

18 May – Final, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore

READ: David Boon steps down from ICC to join Cricket Australia

Peshawar’s Arbab Niaz Stadium to host exhibition match ahead of PSL 10

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is planning to host an exhibition match at Arbab Niaz Cricket Stadium in Peshawar ahead of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 10, according to sources.

The exhibition game will feature top Pakistani players in action, giving Peshawar cricket fans a thrilling spectacle.

Before the match, construction work at Arbab Niaz Stadium is set to be completed, ensuring that the venue is ready to host the event.

The move is seen as part of PCB’s efforts to bring top-tier cricket back to Peshawar and engage fans in the region.

This wouldn’t be the first time PCB has organized an exhibition match before the PSL. Back in 2023, a similar game was held in Quetta, which garnered significant attention and excitement from cricket enthusiasts.

Previously, Peshawar Zalmi’s owner Javed Afridi requested the PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi to consider Arbab Niaz Stadium as one of the venues for the PSL 10.

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He sent an email to the PCB, highlighting the importance of hosting games at Zalmi’s home ground while requesting to form a committee to ensure the hosting of PSL in Peshawar.

After receiving backing from the Chief Minister and the PCB chief, Javed shared the information on his social media handle.

“Had a productive call with CM KP @AliAminKhanPTI. He has given directives to the sports department to release funds for the remaining 20% job at Arbab Niaz Stadium Peshawar,” Afridi posted on X.

“Chairman PCB is in favor of hosting the Peshawar Zalmi games in Peshawar. Get ready for some thrilling events before PSL, fans will see International Stars at KP Soil. InshaAllah.”

For the unversed, Arbab Niaz Stadium was the centre of international cricket two decades ago, however, due to the political situation in the region the venue did not host any international match since 2006.

The last international match at Arbab Niaz Stadium was an ODI between arch-rivals India and Pakistan.

READ: Afghanistan squad reaches Pakistan for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

WATCH: PCB unveils PSL 10 logo ahead of milestone edition

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Tuesday unveiled the highly anticipated logo of the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 10, which will be played from 8 April to 19 May 2025, marking a decade of thrilling cricketing excellence.

“The HBL PSL 10 logo is a bold tribute to the league’s phenomenal journey, encapsulating its evolution into one of the most dynamic and fiercely competitive T20 leagues in the world,” the PCB stated in a press release.

“Designed with a vibrant and modern aesthetic, the emblem celebrates the tournament’s unwavering spirit, unity, and star-studded legacy while symbolizing the exciting future that lies ahead.

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“A striking element of the logo is the six bold lines, a heartfelt tribute to the six franchises that have carried the league’s essence forward.

“These lines represent not only the regional identities and cricketing cultures that each team embodies but also the unbreakable bond of sportsmanship and camaraderie that defines the HBL PSL.”

 

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PSL Chief Executive Salman Naseer:

“From breathtaking last-ball finishes to awe-inspiring centuries, the HBL PSL has delivered unforgettable moments that have become part of cricketing folklore. Over the past nine seasons, we have witnessed extraordinary talent, record-breaking performances and a league that has brought fans together like never before.

“As we embark on this landmark 10th season, the HBL PSL is set to elevate the spectacle even further – bigger stars, higher stakes and celebrations befitting a decade of excellence.

“Fans can brace themselves for an unforgettable season of high-octane action, legendary rivalries, and a cricketing carnival that will once again unite the nation and captivate audiences worldwide.”

READ: Champions Trophy: Tickets for Pakistan-India clash sold out within minutes

Peshawar’s Arbab Niaz Stadium set for revival after 19 years

PESHAWAR: The Arbab Niaz Cricket Stadium in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s capital is poised for a revival after a hiatus of 19 years, with the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 10 matches expected to be played at the venue.

According to ARY News, authorities have started to consider hosting Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 10 matches. The sources within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have revealed that two matches of the PSL 10 could be played at this stadium.

It’s worth noting that an International Cricket Council (ICC) delegation recently visited the stadium to assess its suitability for hosting international matches.

On this occasion, the delegation conducted a comprehensive survey of the ground, pavilion, route for foreign players, and hotel access. The Peshawar Police Chief briefed them on the security arrangements in place.

The officials stated that considering security arrangements there are plans to build a helipad close to the stadium, install drone monitoring, and set up a shuttle service for fans.

Previously, Peshawar Zalmi’s owner Javed Afridi requested the PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi to consider Arbab Niaz Stadium as one of the venues for the PSL 10.

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He sent an email to the PCB, highlighting the importance of hosting games at Zalmi’s home ground while requesting to form a committee to ensure the hosting of PSL in Peshawar.

After receiving backing from the Chief Minister and the PCB chief, Javed shared the information on his social media handle.

“Had a productive call with CM KP @AliAminKhanPTI. He has given directives to the sports department to release funds for the remaining 20% job at Arbab Niaz Stadium Peshawar,” Afridi posted on X.

“Chairman PCB is in favor of hosting the Peshawar Zalmi games in Peshawar. Get ready for some thrilling events before PSL, fans will see International Stars at KP Soil. InshaAllah.”

For the unversed, Arbab Niaz Stadium was the centre of international cricket two decades ago, however, due to the political situation in the region the venue did not host any international match since 2006.

The last international match at Arbab Niaz Stadium was an ODI between arch-rivals India and Pakistan.

READ: Training schedule for tri-nation ODI series unveiled