The 11th edition of HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) starts with an exciting match between Lahore Qalandars and new team Hyderabad Kingsmen today.
Shaheen Shah Afridi will lead Qalandars as they begin their title defence. The match will be played at Lahore’s famous Gaddafi Stadium, where fans are expecting a thrilling start.
New teams mark a fresh chapter
This season is being called a new era because two new teams — Rawalpindiz and Hyderabad Kingsmen — have joined the league.
With more teams, the competition has become tougher. It also means more chances for young players to show their talent.
Tournament format explained
Eight teams have been divided into two groups. Each team will play 10 matches in total.
After the league stage, one Qualifier and two Eliminators will decide which teams reach the final.
Match venues and timings
A total of 44 matches will be played in the tournament.
Matches will be held in Lahore and Karachi, with 22 games at each venue. Night matches will start at 7pm, while double-header days will begin at 2.30pm.
Big prize money announced
This season brings huge rewards for teams and players.
The winning franchise will get USD 500,000, while the runners-up will receive USD 300,000. Another USD 200,000 will be given to the team with the best player development. Players in the winning team will also share USD 500,000.
Top players to watch
Some of the biggest names in Pakistan cricket are part of the league.
Babar Azam leads the batting charts with 3,792 runs. He is followed by Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Rizwan, Shoaib Malik and Rilee Rossouw.
Among bowlers, Hasan Ali leads with 125 wickets. Shaheen Shah Afridi, Wahab Riaz and Shadab Khan are also among top performers.
Teams with strong history
Islamabad United and Lahore Qalandars have each won the title three times.
Other teams like Multan Sultans, Peshawar Zalmi, Quetta Gladiators and Karachi Kings have won the trophy once each.
Captains share their thoughts
Shaheen Shah Afridi said, “We have prepared well at our High-Performance Centre in Islamabad. Our focus is on playing good cricket and giving our best to defend the title.
“It is a proud moment for the PCB and all the players that the HBL PSL has completed 10 years. The league has produced outstanding talent over the years and we hope it continues to provide quality players for Pakistan cricket.”
Shadab Khan said,
“We have a balanced squad with a good mix of experience and youth. Our preparations have gone well and the aim is to play an aggressive and smart brand of cricket throughout the tournament.
“HBL PSL has played a massive role in the growth of Pakistan cricket. It has given young players a platform to perform under pressure and as a team we are looking forward to putting in strong performances for our fans.”
Babar Azam said,
“We will certainly miss the fans in the stadiums and I am sure they will also miss watching the action live. Wherever we play, we receive tremendous support and we will try to play an exciting brand of cricket to make our fans proud while they follow us on TV and social media.
“We felt our bowling lacked consistency last season, but this time we have a strong bowling line-up. Our focus is on executing our plans well and delivering better results.”
Mohammad Rizwan said,
“The PCB has made tremendous efforts for the growth of the HBL PSL and credit also goes to Najam Sethi for taking the initiative to launch the league. The franchise values reaching into the billions reflect how successful and significant the HBL PSL has become.
“With eight teams in the competition, there is now a bigger pool of players and more opportunities for talent to emerge. I hope the tournament helps players perform well, form strong combinations for the national side and deliver positive results for Pakistan in the future.”
Saud Shakeel said,
“We have had productive preparations and the players are eager to begin the tournament on a strong note. Our aim is to play quality cricket, stay consistent and give Quetta Gladiators’ fans plenty to cheer about.
“HBL PSL remains one of the most important platforms for young cricketers in Pakistan. Every season new players come through and we hope this edition continues that tradition while also helping us achieve success as a team.”
David Warner said,
“It is great to have such an experienced group of players in our squad. For us, it is about building on what we achieved last year, adapting quickly to conditions and giving ourselves the best chance to progress further in the tournament.
“We have assembled a strong group at the Player Auction and there is a lot of quality in the squad. Personally, I feel fit and ready, and I hope I can contribute with runs and help put the team in strong positions.”
Marnus Labuschagne said,
“For us, it is important that every individual remains true to themselves. I want to lead this side the same way I lead my state team back home — by empowering players, backing their abilities and encouraging them to play their natural game.
“There is always pressure whenever you represent a team in any league or at international level, but that is also what makes it exciting. This is a new chapter for Kingsmen in the HBL PSL and it is a great opportunity for us to showcase our talent.”
Ashton Turner said,
“Australian players who get the chance to feature in the HBL PSL are very fortunate because we are looked after so well here. The HBL PSL is becoming one of the best franchise tournaments in the world and it is always exciting to be part of it.
“With new ownership, a new squad and a new coaching staff, it feels like the start of a fresh chapter for us. There is so much talent in Pakistan and it is a great opportunity to play alongside these players and grow together as a team.”
Why this season matters
This season is not just another tournament. It brings new teams, bigger rewards and more competition.
Fans are expecting close matches and new stars to emerge.
HBL PSL 11 looks bigger and stronger this time. More teams mean more competition. New players may surprise everyone. The tournament can help Pakistan find future stars. It may also make the league more popular worldwide.
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