HBL PSL 11 Kicks Off Today from Lahore with a Blockbuster Opener
Lahore, 26 March 2026: The much-anticipated HBL PSL 11 kicks off today (Thursday, 26 March) with defending champions Lahore Qalandars taking on debutants Hyderabad Kingsmen at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium.
Led by Shaheen Shah Afridi, Lahore Qalandars enter the tournament aiming to defend their title, while Hyderabad Kingsmen look to make an immediate impact in their debut season of PSL 11.
Tournament Format & Teams in PSL 11
This season marks a new era for HBL PSL 11, featuring eight teams divided into two groups:
Group 1:
- Lahore Qalandars
- Karachi Kings
- Quetta Gladiators
- Peshawar Zalmi
Group 2:
- Hyderabad Kingsmen
- Multan Sultans
- Islamabad United
- Rawalpindiz
Each team will:
- Play 10 matches
- Face group teams twice
- Play other group teams once
The tournament will conclude with:
- Qualifier
- Two Eliminators
- Grand Final
Match Schedule & Venues
A total of 44 matches will be played in HBL PSL 11, split equally between:
- Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
- National Bank Stadium, Karachi
Match Timings:
- Night matches: 7:00 PM PKT
- Double-header matches: 2:30 PM & 7:00 PM PKT
Prize Money & New Rewards in PSL 11
For the first time, HBL PSL 11 introduces expanded rewards:
- Winning team: USD 500,000
- Runner-up: USD 300,000
- Best player development franchise: USD 200,000
This adds more competition and motivation for teams throughout PSL 11.
New Teams Mark a New Era
This edition welcomes two new franchises:
- Rawalpindiz
- Hyderabad Kingsmen
Their inclusion makes PSL 11 more competitive and opens doors for fresh talent in Pakistan cricket.
Top Players & Records in PSL History
As HBL PSL 11 begins today, here are some key stats:
Leading Run Scorers:
- Babar Azam – 3,792 runs
- Fakhar Zaman – 2,964
- Mohammad Rizwan – 2,770
Top Wicket Takers:
- Hasan Ali – 125 wickets
- Shaheen Shah Afridi – 122
- Wahab Riaz – 113
- Shadab Khan – 105
Teams with Most PSL Titles
- Islamabad United – 3 titles
- Lahore Qalandars – 3 titles
- Multan Sultans – 1
- Karachi Kings – 1
- Peshawar Zalmi – 1
- Quetta Gladiators – 1
Captains Share Their Thoughts Ahead of PSL 11
Shaheen Shah Afridi (Lahore Qalandars)
“We have prepared well and our focus is on playing good cricket and defending our title.”
Shadab Khan (Islamabad United)
“We have a balanced squad and aim to play aggressive and smart cricket throughout PSL 11.”
Babar Azam (Peshawar Zalmi)
“We have strengthened our bowling and will aim to deliver better performances this season.”
Mohammad Rizwan (Rawalpindiz)
“With more teams, PSL 11 provides greater opportunities for emerging talent.”
Saud Shakeel (Quetta Gladiators)
“Our goal is to stay consistent and give our fans strong performances.”
David Warner (Karachi Kings)
“We have a strong squad and are ready to compete at the highest level.”
Marnus Labuschagne (Hyderabad Kingsmen)
“This is a new chapter for us, and we are excited to showcase our talent.”
Ashton Turner (Multan Sultans)
“PSL is one of the best leagues, and we are ready for a fresh start.”
Opening Match Preview – Lahore vs Hyderabad
The opening clash of HBL PSL 11 promises fireworks as:
- Lahore Qalandars aim to continue their dominance
- Hyderabad Kingsmen look to make history in their first match
This PSL 11 opener happening today is expected to set the tone for an action-packed tournament.
Final Thoughts
With new teams, bigger rewards, and top international stars, HBL PSL 11 is set to be one of the most exciting seasons in the league’s history.
As the tournament begins today, fans can expect:
- High-intensity matches
- Emerging talent
- Unforgettable cricket moments
Stay tuned for full coverage of PSL 11, including live updates, match highlights, and expert analysis.