As the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) gears up for its landmark 10th season in 2025, cricket fans are buzzing with anticipation. While the tournament has long been a stage for established stars to shine, it’s often the fresh faces and emerging talents that steal the spotlight, injecting new energy into the competition and redefining the dynamics of T20 cricket in Pakistan. With franchises finalizing their squads and preparations in full swing, PSL 10 promises to unearth a new generation of cricketing heroes. Here’s a closer look at eight young players who could light up the tournament and leave an indelible mark on the league’s history.
Saad Masood (Islamabad United)
At just 20 years old, Saad Masood is already being hailed as a potential successor to Islamabad United’s captain, Shadab Khan. This dynamic all-rounder made his PSL debut at the tender age of 18 with Peshawar Zalmi, where he faced the steep learning curve typical of young players thrust into high-pressure T20 cricket. Though his initial stint was challenging, Masood has since matured significantly, honing his skills in Pakistan’s domestic circuit.
His recent performances in the Champions T20 Cup speak volumes about his potential. Masood racked up 157 runs in the tournament at an impressive average of 39, while maintaining a strike rate of 147—a testament to his ability to score quickly and effectively. On the bowling front, his leg-spin remains a work in progress, but there’s undeniable promise there. With Islamabad United offering him a fresh start in PSL 10, Masood could emerge as a breakout star, blending youthful exuberance with growing maturity.
Ali Raza (Peshawar Zalmi)
Few 17-year-olds carry the weight of expectation that Ali Raza does. A fast-bowling sensation, Raza has already earned praise from cricketing luminaries like Ian Bishop, who sees shades of greatness in his raw pace and control. His standout performances came during the U19 World Cup, where he snagged nine wickets in just three matches, all while keeping his economy rate below an astonishing 3.5 runs per over.
Raza’s transition to senior cricket has been equally impressive. In first-class cricket, he delivered a match-defining 10-wicket haul, signaling his readiness for bigger stages. Peshawar Zalmi, known for nurturing young talent, will look to unleash Raza’s fiery pace in PSL 10, where his ability to swing the ball and generate bounce could trouble even the most seasoned batters.
Muhammad Shehzad (Islamabad United)
Muhammad Shehzad, a 21-year-old all-rounder, is another exciting prospect in Islamabad United’s arsenal. Shehzad burst into the limelight with a hat-trick in the President Trophy Final, playing a pivotal role in Pakistan TV’s title triumph. That performance was no fluke—his domestic season was nothing short of spectacular, with 706 runs at an average of 54.3 and 20 wickets across nine matches.
Shehzad’s versatility makes him a valuable asset. He can anchor an innings with the bat or break partnerships with his disciplined bowling. Islamabad United’s decision to snap him up reflects their faith in his ability to deliver under pressure. PSL 10 could be the platform where Shehzad transforms from a domestic standout to a household name.
Maaz Sadaqat (Peshawar Zalmi)
At 19, Maaz Sadaqat represents the next wave of talent transitioning from Pakistan’s U19 setup to senior cricket. While his showing at the 2022 U19 World Cup was modest, Sadaqat has since found his rhythm in first-class cricket, averaging nearly 40 across 21 matches. His T20 credentials are equally compelling, with an average of 29.6 and a strike rate of 131.3.
A highlight of his recent form was a blistering 82 off 53 balls against the Markhors, showcasing his ability to dominate attacks. For Peshawar Zalmi, Sadaqat brings a blend of aggression and composure—a combination that could see him shine brightly in PSL 10.
Mohammad Zeeshan (Quetta Gladiators)
Standing at an imposing 6’8”, Mohammad Zeeshan is a towering figure in every sense. The fast bowler made waves at the U19 World Cup with six wickets in five matches, but it was his 6-19 spell against Nepal in the U19 Asia Cup that truly turned heads. Zeeshan’s ability to extract bounce and movement makes him a nightmare for batters.
His stint in the Pakistan Junior League further cemented his reputation, as he topped the wicket-taking charts and delivered a match-winning 3-27 in the final. Quetta Gladiators will bank on Zeeshan’s raw pace and intimidating presence to rattle opposition lineups in PSL 10.
Arafat Minhas (Karachi Kings)
Arafat Minhas is fast becoming one of Pakistan’s most exciting young cricketers, and PSL 10 could be his defining moment. This all-rounder has already shown glimpses of brilliance, nearly steering Pakistan to victory in the U19 World Cup semi-final with his dual contributions. He finished that tournament with eight wickets at an economy rate of 2.7, while also chipping in with handy runs lower down the order.
Minhas has tasted international cricket, playing four T20Is for Pakistan, and has two PSL appearances under his belt from last season. His left-arm spin has troubled top batters—including Babar Azam—thanks to his control and guile. For Karachi Kings, Minhas offers balance and versatility, making him a player to watch closely.
Shahid Aziz (Multan Sultans)
Shahid Aziz is an all-rounder whose adaptability has started to garner attention in Pakistan’s cricketing circles. His performances in domestic cricket have been noteworthy, with significant contributions both with the bat and ball. While specifics of his stats are still emerging, his inclusion in Multan Sultans’ squad for PSL 10 speaks to his growing reputation.
Aziz’s ability to influence games in multiple facets makes him a dark horse. With the right opportunities, he could seize the spotlight and bolster Multan Sultans’ campaign in the tournament.
Sufiyan Muqeem (Peshawar Zalmi)
Sufiyan Muqeem, a young mystery spinner, has already etched his name into Pakistan cricket’s record books. His sensational 5-3 spell against Zimbabwe in a T20I last year helped bowl them out for a paltry 57—their lowest-ever T20I total. Despite limited chances since, Muqeem reminded everyone of his talent in a recent T20I against New Zealand, taking two wickets in two overs while others faltered.
With 10 T20Is and three ODIs of international experience, Muqeem’s deceptive spin and composure under pressure make him a potential game-changer. Peshawar Zalmi will look to him to bamboozle batters and provide breakthroughs in PSL 10.
A Season of Promise
As HBL PSL 10 approaches, these eight youngsters stand on the cusp of greatness. Each brings a unique skill set—be it blistering pace, crafty spin, or explosive batting—that could turn matches on their head. For fans, the excitement lies not just in watching established stars but in witnessing the rise of these new heroes. With the tournament set to kick off in early 2025, all eyes will be on Saad Masood, Ali Raza, Muhammad Shehzad, Maaz Sadaqat, Mohammad Zeeshan, Arafat Minhas, Shahid Aziz, and Sufiyan Muqeem as they aim to steal the show and carve their names into PSL lore.
