PSL 9 Trophy unveiled: "The Orion Trophy" marks the spirit of competition

 PSL 9 Trophy unveiled: 

"The Orion Trophy" marks the spirit of competition

Asher Butt 

The excitement for the upcoming ninth edition of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) reached new heights as the HBL PSL 9 trophy, named "The Orion Trophy," was unveiled at the Lahore Polo Club’s Aibak Ground of the Race Course Park now known as Jillani Park on Tuesday.

The prestigious ceremony was attended by PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, franchise owners, HBL representatives, and star cricketers.

"The Orion Trophy" embodies the spirit of the HBL PSL, symbolizing the bright and shining aspirations of each participating team. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed his pride in the success story of the league and looked forward to a month-long celebration of cricket, excitement, and drama.

Mohsin Naqvi stated, "Today, as we unveil this Orion trophy, we look forward to a month-long celebration of the beautiful game of cricket and the excitement and drama that accompanies it." He thanked HBL, the title sponsor, for their continued support, making HBL PSL a success over the past eight years.

Franchise owners shared their excitement for the upcoming season, with representatives from Islamabad United, Karachi Kings, Lahore Qalandars, Multan Sultans, Peshawar Zalmi, and Quetta Gladiators expressing their aspirations and determination.

Ali Naqvi, owner of Islamabad United, said, "We had one of the best drafts in our history, and some of the most exciting players will be lining up for Islamabad United this season." He expressed eagerness to watch the team play at the home ground in Rawalpindi.

Salman Iqbal, owner of Karachi Kings, anticipated quality results for Karachi Kings, stating, "We have a new coach and captain for this season, which makes the fans more excited about Karachi’s prospects."

Atif Rana, CEO of Lahore Qalandars, aimed for a hat-trick of triumphs, saying, "As the two-time HBL PSL champions, we are eagerly looking forward to completing a hat-trick of triumphs for the first time in the history of the league."

Ali Khan Tareen, owner of Multan Sultans, expressed his enthusiasm for the tournament, emphasizing the importance of maintaining consistency in performances.

Javed Afridi, chair of Peshawar Zalmi, promised exciting and attacking cricket, stating, "My team is hungry to prove a point on the field, and I am sure the beauty of the Orion Trophy must have added more to that hunger."

Nadeem Omar, owner of Quetta Gladiators, saw the unveiling as motivation for Quetta to shine in HBL PSL 9. "We have had our fair share of struggles in the recent seasons, but it is about time that Gladiators showcase good fight and determination."

About "The Orion Trophy":

The trophy, made from pure silver and coated in white gold, symbolizes excellence. Plated with white gold and adorned with 18,000 stones, it stands tall as a marvel, reflecting the commitment to the HBL Pakistan Super League. The association with Orion, a prominent constellation, adds celestial significance to the trophy, easily recognizable with three bright stars forming Orion's Belt, visible from both hemispheres. The intricate craftsmanship and 900+ hours of non-stop work add grace and prestige to this emblem of HBL PSL 9.