Rawalpindi, April 9, 2025 – Cricket fever is set to grip Pakistan as the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) X bursts into action this Friday with an unprecedented opening ceremony at Rawalpindi Cricket StadiumFor the first time ever, this electric stadium will kick off the league’s opening game, ushering in an exhilarating era for the country’s top T20 tournament with unmatched energy, anticipation, and a historic moment that promises to redefine cricket’s premier showcase.
The festivities kick off at 7:00 pm with a dazzling lineup of musical and cultural performances designed to captivate fans. Sufi maestro Abida Parveen will weave her soulful magic, while the versatile Ali Zafar promises a fusion of tradition and flair with a special cultural showcase. Adding a modern edge, Young Stunners will electrify the crowd with their contemporary beats. The anthem for PSL X, a much-anticipated highlight, will be brought to life by an ensemble featuring Abrar ul Haq, Natasha Baig, Talha Anjum, and Ali Zafar. The ceremony will reach its crescendo with a breathtaking fireworks display, lighting up the Rawalpindi sky in a celebration of cricket and culture.
As the echoes of the fireworks fade, the cricketing spotlight will shine on defending champions Islamabad United, who will lock horns with two-time winners Lahore Qalandars in the tournament opener at 8:30 pm. This blockbuster clash sets the tone for what promises to be a fiercely contested season, with both teams boasting formidable lineups and passionate fanbases.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has pulled out all the stops for PSL X, scheduling 34 matches across four iconic venues from April 11 to May 18. Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium will host 11 matches, including the high-stakes first Qualifier on May 13. Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium takes center stage with 13 matches, culminating in the grand final on May 18—a fitting climax at one of Pakistan’s most historic grounds. Meanwhile, Karachi’s National Bank Stadium and Multan Cricket Stadium will each stage 5 matches, ensuring fans across the country get their share of live T20 action.
This year’s tournament is packed with excitement, featuring three double-headers to keep the adrenaline pumping. Two of these full-day cricket feasts are slated for Saturdays, while a special Labour Day double-header on May 1 adds a midweek treat for fans. The schedule reflects the PCB’s commitment to delivering non-stop entertainment, blending world-class cricket with a festive atmosphere.
“The HBL PSL has grown into more than just a cricket tournament—it’s a celebration of Pakistan’s spirit,” a PCB spokesperson said. “Hosting the opener in Rawalpindi for the first time is a testament to our mission to bring this spectacle closer to fans nationwide.”
With a mix of international stars, emerging talent, and passionate crowds, PSL X is poised to deliver unforgettable moments. From the opening notes of Abida Parveen’s performance to the final ball in Lahore, the next five weeks promise a rollercoaster of emotions, rivalries, and cricketing brilliance. As the countdown to Friday begins, Rawalpindi stands ready to usher in a new era of PSL glory. Let the games begin!
