LAHORE: The ninth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) begins tomorrow, with Lahore Qalandars, two-time champions (2022 and 2023), against Islamabad United, also two-time winners (2016 and 2018), in the opening match at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
The enthralling battle between the two sides is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. Pakistan time.
The afternoon match in the double-header will begin at 2 p.m., with the first ball of the evening match being bowled at 7 p.m. The matches during Ramadan will begin at 9 p.m.
It is worth noting that the PSL’s first opening ceremony will take place at the Lahore Stadium.
Ali Zafar and Aima Baig to captivate audience
The celebration will begin at 630pm with an array of spectacular performances by famous artist Arif Lohar, Natasha Baig, pop band Noori, and the singers of the PSL 9 anthem song, Ali Zafar and Aima Baig. Fans will also be treated to stunning pyrotechnics and a captivating laser show.
The tournament will take place in four cities: Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi, with 34 matches scheduled.
According to the details, the Lahore Stadium will host nine matches, with the Qalandars playing five of them at home.
The scenic Multan Cricket Stadium will host five matches, all of which will feature the Multan Sultans. Lahore and Multan will host the first leg of the league from February 17 to 27.
From March 2 to 10, the Pindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi will host nine matches, five of which will feature United. Peshawar Zalmi will play four of their ten games at Rawalpindi, while the Quetta Gladiators will play three in the Pindi Cricket Stadium.
Karachi’s National Bank Stadium will host 11 matches, including the grand finale on March 18. The home team, Karachi Kings, will play at least five matches in the stadium, while the Gladiators will play at least three.
Captains’ Thoughts
Shadab Khan, United’s captain, stated, “I have been captain of Islamabad United for the last four seasons, and I want to lift the trophy for my team this season.”
“The acquisitions of Imad Wasim and the Shah brothers are a significant boost to the brand. Faheem Ashraf and Azam Khan are two key members of our team. I want my team to stand tall in high-pressure games and cross the finish line.”
He stated that they had assessed their missteps from the previous season and were looking forward to implementing their plans properly this time around.
Kings skipper Shan Masood stated, “To represent and lead my hometown team Karachi in the PSL is such a huge honour.”
