Rawalpindi, April 11, 2025 – The much-anticipated 10th edition of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL X) officially begins today, marking a decade of thrilling T20 cricket that has captured the hearts of millions. The tournament opens with a blockbuster clash between defending champions Islamabad United and two-time winners Lahore Qalandars at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, setting the stage for a month-long festival of high-octane action.
The PSL X schedule, announced by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), promises 34 exhilarating matches across four iconic venues—Rawalpindi, Lahore, Karachi, and Multan—from April 11 to May 18. Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium will host 13 matches, including the Eliminators and the grand final on May 18, while Rawalpindi will stage 11 games, including the Qualifier on May 13. Karachi’s National Bank Stadium and Multan Cricket Stadium will each host five matches, ensuring fans across Pakistan witness top-tier cricket.
This season, six franchises—Islamabad United, Lahore Qalandars, Karachi Kings, Peshawar Zalmi, Quetta Gladiators, and Multan Sultans—will compete in a double round-robin format, with the top four teams advancing to the playoffs. The opening ceremony, held before today’s match, dazzled fans with performances by Ali Zafar, Abrar ul Haq, Talha Anjum, and Natasha Baig, alongside appearances from PSL legends like Shahid Afridi and Mohammad Rizwan.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi hailed PSL X as a “celebration of Pakistan’s cricketing spirit,” emphasizing its role in nurturing talent and uniting fans. “From the electric crowds to the nail-biting finishes, PSL X will showcase why this league is a global phenomenon,” he said. The tournament’s new “Luminara Trophy,” unveiled earlier this year, will be awarded to the champions, with the winners also pocketing USD 500,000.
Today’s opener pits Islamabad United, fresh off their 2024 triumph, against a Lahore Qalandars side eager to reclaim their 2022 and 2023 glory. Captains Shadab Khan and Shaheen Afridi expressed confidence in their squads, promising a fierce contest. Fans are buzzing with excitement, with tickets sold out and live streaming available on platforms like Tapmad and Vedu APP.
As PSL X unfolds, expect intense rivalries, stunning performances, and unforgettable moments. With stars like Babar Azam, Hasan Ali, and international recruits in action, Pakistan’s premier T20 league is ready to deliver another unforgettable season. Let the games begin!
