RAWALPINDI: The HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) is poised to launch its tenth edition, HBL PSL X, with a high-stakes match between defending champions Islamabad United and Lahore Qalandars at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Friday night. The tournament, featuring 34 matches, will span from April 11 to May 18, with a dazzling opening ceremony preceding the inaugural game.
The competition will include three double-header days, scheduled for April 12, May 1, and May 10, and will unfold across four major cities: Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi. Single matches will dominate the schedule, with three afternoon games beginning at 4 p.m. PKT and night matches starting at 8 p.m. PKT.
The stakes are high with a prize of USD 500,000 for the winners and USD 200,000 for the runners-up, adding to the competitive spirit. The HBL PSL X Draft, held on January 13, allowed franchises to enhance their squads in preparation for this milestone edition.
The newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore will host 13 matches, including the Qualifier, Eliminator, and the final on May 18. Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium will see 11 matches, while Multan Cricket Stadium and National Bank Stadium will each host five matches.
Babar Azam, leading run-scorer in HBL PSL history, will captain Peshawar Zalmi. Meanwhile, Australia’s David Warner steps in as the fourth overseas captain for Karachi Kings. Mohammad Rizwan retains his leadership of Multan Sultans, and Saud Shakeel takes the helm for Quetta Gladiators. Shadab Khan and Shaheen Shah Afridi will continue their roles as captains for Islamabad United and Lahore Qalandars, respectively.
The pre-tournament press conference revealed high spirits and strategies from team captains. Babar Azam underscored Peshawar Zalmi’s focus on overcoming past mistakes, while Hasan Ali emphasized Karachi Kings’ aggressive play. Mohammad Rizwan highlighted the league’s significance, and Saud Shakeel expressed optimism for Quetta Gladiators’ new squad. Shadab Khan and Shaheen Shah Afridi spoke of their teams’ aspirations and development goals.
As the HBL PSL X unfolds, fans across Pakistan are gearing up for a season of thrilling cricket action.