HBL PSL 11’s tentative schedule prepared; begins from March 26
By Nawaz Gohar ; The initial schedule for HBL PSL Season 11 has been drafted. A proposal has been made to hold the opening match on March 26 between Lahore Qalandars and the new franchise,
Hyderabad Houston Kingsmen. The schedule was discussed in a meeting with representatives from all franchises and will be finalized after incorporating their feedback.
With the inclusion of two new teams, the 11th edition of the Pakistan Super League will commence on March 26, preceded by practice sessions from March 22 to 25. Traditionally, the opening match features the defending champions.
Sources indicate that on March 26, Lahore Qalandars will face the Hyderabad Houston Kingsmen at Gaddafi Stadium. Matches are set to be played across Lahore, Karachi, Multan, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, and Peshawar.
The PCB has officially announced that matches will also be held in Peshawar, with Peshawar Zalmi’s first home game against Islamabad United scheduled under floodlights on March 28. Qualifier 1 is slated for May 2 in Rawalpindi, followed by Eliminator 1 the next day at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
Eliminator 2 will take place at the same venue on May 5, with the Final scheduled for May 10. While the host for the final has not been officially decided, it is highly likely to be held at Gaddafi Stadium.
The 11th edition will feature Lahore Qalandars, Karachi Kings, Peshawar Zalmi, Islamabad United, and Quetta Gladiators, alongside new entries: Pindiz, Hyderabad Houston Kingsmen, and Sialkot Stallions.
The PCB did not extend the agreement for Multan Sultans; consequently, the owners of that franchise have rebranded as “Pindiz.” Meanwhile, the party that purchased Sialkot Stallions is reportedly facing financial difficulties. A new company interested in buying the majority shares is considering retaining the name “Multan.” The situation is expected to be clarified within a few days.
As per the draft schedule, Lahore will host the highest number of matches (12), followed by Rawalpindi (10), Faisalabad (7), Karachi (6), Multan (5), and Peshawar (2). This year’s PSL will feature 8 teams, including the new additions from Hyderabad and Sialkot, while the “Pindiz” team replaces Multan Sultans
