PSL X all set to begin with glittering ceremony and high-stakes matches

PSL X all set to begin with glittering ceremony and high-stakes matches

Asher Butt

The 10th edition of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL X) is ready to enthrall cricket enthusiasts worldwide, starting with a spectacular opening ceremony and match between defending champions Islamabad United and Lahore Qalandars at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Friday, April 11.

The tournament, which will run until May 18, promises action-packed cricket and fierce competition among six dynamic teams.

HBL PSL X features 34 matches across four iconic venues—Rawalpindi, Karachi, Lahore, and Multan. The schedule includes three double-headers on April 12, May 1, and May 10, with afternoon games beginning at 4 PM and night matches starting at 8 PM PKT. Fans can book their tickets online at pcb.tcs.com.pk and follow the event through various media platforms.

The newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore will host 13 matches, including the Qualifier, both Eliminators, and the final on May 18. Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium will witness 11 games, while Multan Cricket Stadium and National Bank Stadium (Karachi) will host five matches each.

The HBL PSL X Draft on January 13 allowed franchises to bolster their squads with strategic picks, assembling balanced rosters. Here’s what fans can expect from the teams:

Defending champions led by Shadab Khan, who has captained the team in 55 PSL matches. Islamabad United is eyeing a fourth title and will play five home games at Rawalpindi.

Under the leadership of Shaheen Shah Afridi, the only captain to have won consecutive PSL titles, Lahore Qalandars continue to focus on developing young talent.

|||Spearheaded by the league’s leading run-scorer Babar Azam, Zalmi aims to address weaknesses from previous seasons with a strong core of batters and bowlers.

Captained by Australia’s David Warner, Karachi will blend aggression with strategy, boasting a revamped batting lineup.

Mohammad Rizwan continues as captain, with hopes of breaking their streak of three consecutive runner-up finishes.

Saud Shakeel takes over as captain, leading a well-balanced Quetta squad aiming for redemption after a series of disappointing seasons.

Babar Azam (Peshawar Zalmi) in a pre tournament press conference stated: “We’re focused on avoiding past mistakes and have strengthened both batting and bowling. All teams are strong, making HBL PSL X very competitive.”

Hasan Ali (Karachi Kings) said: “Powerplay is key to increasing our chances of winning. We’ll play entertaining cricket and focus on an aggressive start.”

Mohammad Rizwan (Multan Sultans) explained: “HBL PSL is a huge brand with nationwide support. Whoever wins, the success will belong to all cricket fans.”

Saud Shakeel (Quetta Gladiators) said: “We’ve assembled a quality squad this time and aim to entertain fans. It’s exciting to lead this well-balanced team.”

Shadab Khan (Islamabad United) vowed: “As defending champions, we’re determined to continue our consistent performances and expand our trophy collection.”

Shaheen Shah Afridi (Lahore Qalandars) said: “Our focus remains on developing quality players. I’m excited about our young talent and ready to celebrate HBL PSL over the coming weeks.”

With USD 500,000 awaiting the champions, this milestone 10th season of HBL PSL promises high stakes and unforgettable moments. From star-studded lineups to nail-biting matches, the tournament is set to reinforce its reputation as one of cricket’s premier leagues. The runnerup gest $200,000.

Get ready for a thrilling journey as HBL PSL X kicks off with flair, bringing together top-class cricket, innovation, and entertainment.