PSL X Kicks Off with High Expectations and Star-Studded Lineups
  • Australia’s Ben Dwarshuis is a notable addition this season.
  • The winning team will receive $500,000, while the runners-up will be awarded $200,000.
  • Lahore Qalandars are determined to win the trophy this time.

ISLAMABAD: The 10th season of the Pakistan Super League (PSL X) is set to commence tonight at Pindi Stadium, amidst heightened anticipation, as reported by *The News*.

The opening match will feature a thrilling contest between the defending champions, Islamabad United, and their rivals, Lahore Qalandars, promising an electrifying start to what is expected to be a highly competitive tournament. Both teams are filled with optimism and are eager to outperform each other in what could be one of the most exciting PSL seasons to date.

Despite their victory last season, Islamabad United is approaching the new assignment with diligence. All-rounder and captain Shadab Khan expressed confidence in his team’s readiness and commitment to securing another win.

“We are fully prepared to raise the bar even higher this season. Following last year’s title, we carefully assessed our weaknesses and have made strategic additions. I believe this is our most balanced and explosive team yet,” Shadab stated.

Australia’s Ben Dwarshuis, known for his blistering left-arm pace reaching speeds of over 150 km/h, is a significant addition to the season. His raw speed and aggressive approach could potentially transform United’s game. Furthermore, the inclusion of Australian superstar Darcy Short has substantially strengthened the team.

On the other hand, the Lahore Qalandars are not merely aiming to catch up. With a team they believe is capable of challenging any opponent, the Qalandars are determined to convert years of dedicated preparation into winning the trophy.

Daryl Mitchell joins the Qalandars, bringing stability to the middle order with his reputation for dependable batting and composure under pressure. With so much at stake, the clash between these two sides is expected to be a thrilling curtain-raiser.

The historic edition will begin with a spectacular opening ceremony on Friday before the start of play. PSL X is scheduled from April 11 to May 18, featuring 34 matches, including three double-headers on April 12, May 1, and May 10. The remaining fixtures will be single matches held across Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi. The three-afternoon games are scheduled to begin at 4pm PST.

The six teams will be competing for the $500,000 prize money for the winners, while the runners-up will be awarded $200,000. Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore is set to host 13 matches, including the qualifier, eliminator, and the final on May 18. Pindi Stadium will host 11 matches, while Multan Stadium and National Stadium Karachi will each host five PSL X matches this season.

Babar Azam will lead the Peshawar Zalmi, who won the PSL in 2017. Australia’s David Warner will be the fourth overseas player to captain the Karachi Kings, the 2020 champions.

Mohammad Rizwan will continue as the skipper for the Sultans. Shadab Khan, who has led Islamabad United in 55 PSL matches, will continue his leadership role for PSL X, while Shaheen Shah Afridi will be in charge of the Lahore Qalandars. Saud Shakeel will lead the Quetta Gladiators.

At a press conference on Thursday, all captains except David Warner, who was represented by Hasan Ali of Karachi Kings, addressed the media. Babar stated, “This season, we are focusing on addressing what we missed in the last couple of editions and avoiding the same mistakes. We have strengthened our core in both bowling and batting to ensure we don’t struggle at any stage of the game.”

Karachi Kings vice-captain Hasan said their team had changed the combination to bring firepower to their batting and “in HBL PSL X we intend to play with aggression early on as powerplay is the key to increasing your chances of winning.”

Rizwan noted that PSL X has evolved into a significant brand, with families across the country supporting different teams and eagerly anticipating this sporting spectacle throughout the year. “Whoever wins the tournament will be a success for this country as the league has entered the 10th edition.”

Gladiators’ Saud mentioned, “The last few seasons haven’t been good for Quetta, and like all other teams, we have tried our best to assemble a quality squad. We look forward to playing well and entertaining the fans this time around.”

Shadab expressed Islamabad United’s excitement about playing five home games at the Rawalpindi Stadium this season and their anticipation of performing well in front of their fans. “You will get to see a different Islamabad United outfit this season.”

Shaheen added, “One of the key goals for Lahore Qalandars throughout the HBL PSL has been developing and producing quality players, and we will stick to that goal in the 10th edition of the league as well.”