The 11th edition of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) is set to commence on Thursday, 26 March, with Lahore Qalandars, led by Shaheen Shah Afridi, defending their title against the debutants Hyderabad Kingsmen at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. Qalandars, who have reached the final in four of the last six PSL seasons, are grouped with their traditional rivals Karachi Kings, Quetta Gladiators, and Peshawar Zalmi. Each team in this group will face the others twice and play the teams from the other group once.
The second group consists of Hyderabad Kingsmen, Multan Sultans, Islamabad United, and Rawalpindi. Under this format, every team will play 10 matches before the playoffs, which include a Qualifier and two Eliminators, determine the finalists for PSL 11. The tournament features 44 matches, evenly split between Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and National Bank Stadium in Karachi. Day matches will start at 2:30 pm PKT, while night fixtures will begin at 7 pm PKT.
In a significant development, PSL 11 introduces separate franchise rewards for the first time. The championship-winning franchise will receive USD 500,000, the runners-up USD 300,000, and the franchise with the best player development program will earn USD 200,000. Players on the winning team will share a prize pool of USD 500,000.
Rawalpindi and Hyderabad Kingsmen are making their PSL debuts this season, marking a new era following the historic player auctions held earlier this year in January and February. Babar Azam, the only player to have appeared in 100 PSL matches, leads the all-time run-scoring list with 3,792 runs, followed by Fakhar Zaman (2,964), Mohammad Rizwan (2,770), Shoaib Malik (2,350), and Rilee Rossouw (2,287). On the bowling side, only four players have taken 100 or more wickets: Hasan Ali (125), Shaheen Shah Afridi (122), Wahab Riaz (113), and Shadab Khan (105).
Among the franchises, Islamabad United and Lahore Qalandars have each won the PSL title three times, while Multan Sultans, Peshawar Zalmi, Quetta Gladiators, and Karachi Kings have each secured the championship once.
In the pre-tournament captains’ press conference, Shaheen Shah Afridi expressed confidence in his team’s preparation at their High-Performance Centre in Islamabad, emphasizing their goal to defend the title by playing quality cricket. He also highlighted the league’s role in nurturing Pakistani cricket talent over its decade-long history.
Shadab Khan of Islamabad United spoke about their balanced squad blending experience and youth, aiming to play aggressive and intelligent cricket. He acknowledged the PSL’s significant contribution to Pakistan cricket by providing young players with a platform to perform under pressure.
Babar Azam, leading Peshawar Zalmi, noted the absence of fans in stadiums but appreciated their support through TV and social media. He pointed out the need for improved bowling consistency, confident in their strengthened bowling lineup this season.
Mohammad Rizwan, captain of Rawalpindi Kingsmen, praised the PCB’s efforts in expanding the league and the franchise valuations reflecting PSL’s success. He hopes the tournament will continue to foster talent and strengthen Pakistan’s national team combinations.
Quetta Gladiators’ captain Saud Shakeel emphasized their productive preparations and desire to deliver consistent, quality performances to excite their fans. He recognized the PSL as a vital platform for emerging Pakistani cricketers.
Karachi Kings’ David Warner highlighted the experience within their squad and the importance of adapting quickly to conditions to advance further. He expressed readiness to contribute significantly with the bat.
Hyderabad Kingsmen’s Marnus Labuschagne stressed the importance of players staying true to themselves and leading by empowering teammates. He acknowledged the pressure of representing a new franchise but welcomed the opportunity to showcase their talent.
Multan Sultans’ Ashton Turner reflected on the privilege Australian players have in participating in the PSL, praising the league’s growth into a top franchise tournament globally. He described the new ownership, squad, and coaching staff as a fresh start, eager to develop alongside Pakistan’s talented players.
