The Pakistan Super League’s 10th season (PSL X) commences tonight (Friday) under the dazzling lights of Pindi Stadium, with excitement reaching fever pitch, The News reported.
Defending champions Islamabad United and their fierce rivals Lahore Qalandars will face off in what promises to be a thrilling opening match, setting the stage for an intensely competitive tournament. Anticipated to be one of the most captivating PSL seasons yet, both teams are brimming with hope and confidence, eager to outperform each other.
Despite their confidence stemming from last season’s victory, Islamabad United is not underestimating the new challenge. Explosive all-rounder and captain Shadab Khan expressed his confidence in the team’s readiness and determination to win.
“We are fully geared up to raise the bar even higher this season. After winning the title last year, we carefully evaluated our gaps and have made some smart additions. I believe this is our most balanced and explosive team yet,” Shadab stated.
Australia’s Ben Dwarshuis, a fiery left-arm pacer capable of consistently exceeding speeds of 150 km/h, is a notable addition this season. His raw pace and aggressive approach could significantly impact United’s game. The inclusion of Australian superstar Darcy Short has further strengthened the team’s lineup.
Lahore Qalandars, on the other hand, are not simply aiming to catch up. With a side they believe is capable of taking on any opponent on their day, the Qalandars are determined to transform years of dedicated preparation into a trophy victory.
Daryl Mitchell joins the Qalandars, bringing stability to the middle order with his reputation for reliable batting and calm composure under pressure. The stakes are exceptionally high as these two sides clash in what is expected to be an electrifying curtain-raiser.
A spectacular opening ceremony preceding the start of play on Friday will mark the beginning of this historic edition. PSL X is scheduled to run from April 11 to May 18. The 34-match tournament includes three double-headers on April 12, May 1, and May 10, while the remaining fixtures will be single matches held across Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi. The three afternoon games will commence at 4 pm PST (Karachi time).
The six teams will also be competing for the $500,000 prize money awarded to the winners, with the runners-up team receiving $200,000. Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore is set to host 13 matches, including the qualifier, eliminator, and the final on May 18. Pindi Stadium will host 11 matches, while Multan Stadium and National Stadium Karachi will each witness five PSL X matches this season.
Babar Azam will lead the 2017 PSL champions, Peshawar Zalmi. Australia’s David Warner becomes the fourth overseas player to captain the 2020 champions, Karachi Kings.
Mohammad Rizwan will continue to captain the Multan Sultans. Shadab Khan, who has led Islamabad United in 55 PSL matches, has been entrusted with leadership duties for PSL X as well, while Shaheen Shah Afridi will be in charge of the Lahore Qalandars. Saud Shakeel will captain the Quetta Gladiators.
All captains, except David Warner who was represented by Hasan Ali (Karachi Kings), spoke at a press conference on Thursday at a local hotel. Babar stated: “This season, we are focusing on what we missed out on in the last couple of editions and ensuring we don’t repeat the same mistakes. We have strengthened our core in both bowling and batting so that we don’t struggle at any stage of the game.”
Karachi Kings vice-captain Hasan said their team had adjusted their combination to bring more firepower to their batting, and “in HBL PSL X, we intend to play with aggression early on as the powerplay is key to increasing your chances of winning.”
Rizwan commented that PSL X had become such a significant brand that almost every family in the country has supporters of different teams, and all fans eagerly anticipate this sporting spectacle throughout the year. “Whoever wins the tournament will be a success for this country as the league has entered its 10th edition.”
Gladiators’ Saud said: “The last few seasons haven’t been good for Quetta, and like all other teams, we have tried our best to assemble a quality squad. We look forward to playing well and entertaining the fans this time around.”
Shadab mentioned that Islamabad United was excited to play five home games at the Rawalpindi Stadium this season and they looked forward to performing well in front of their fans. “You will get to see a different Islamabad United outfit this season.”
Shaheen stated: “One of the key goals for Lahore Qalandars throughout the HBL PSL has been developing and producing quality players, and we will stick to that goal in the 10th edition of the league as well.”
