The preliminary schedule for HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 11 has been prepared, with the opening match proposed for March 26 between defending champions Lahore Qalandars and the newly introduced team Hyderabad Kingsmen.
According to details, the 11th edition of the tournament will begin on March 26 following the inclusion of two new franchises. Practice sessions are scheduled from March 22 to 25. Traditionally, the opening fixture features the defending champions.
Sources said Lahore Qalandars are likely to face the new Hyderabad Houston Kingsmen at Gaddafi Stadium on March 26. Matches are expected to be staged in Lahore, Karachi, Multan, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi and Peshawar.
The Pakistan Cricket Board has announced that matches will also be held in Peshawar. On March 28, Peshawar Zalmi are scheduled to play their first match against Islamabad United under floodlights.
The playoff stage is set to begin with Qualifier One on May 2 in Rawalpindi, followed by Eliminator One at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, on May 3. Eliminator Two will also be played at the same venue on May 5. The final is scheduled for May 10, although the host city has yet to be officially confirmed, with strong indications that it will be held in Lahore.
Season 11 will feature the existing teams Lahore Qalandars, Karachi Kings, Peshawar Zalmi, Islamabad United and Quetta Gladiators along with the new franchises Pindis, Hyderabad Houston Kingsmen and Sialkot Stallions.
Meanwhile, the PCB did not extend the contract of Multan Sultans. The franchise owners have reportedly renamed their team Pindis. The group that purchased Sialkot Stallions is facing financial challenges, while a new company seeking majority shares is considering retaining the name Multan. The situation is expected to become clear in the coming days.
