PSL 11 Set for Major Expansion: Eight Teams, Six Cities, Bigger Dreams
In a historic move for Pakistan’s premier cricket tournament, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially confirmed that the Pakistan Super League (PSL) will expand to eight teams and be hosted across six venues starting from Season 11. The decision marks a significant milestone in the league’s evolution and promises to bring more regional representation, talent, and excitement to fans across the country.
Two New Teams Join the League
According to PCB officials, two additional franchises will join the six existing ones — Islamabad United, Lahore Qalandars, Karachi Kings, Multan Sultans, Peshawar Zalmi, and Quetta Gladiators — making it the largest edition in PSL history.
The PCB is finalising details for the bidding and ownership process, with franchise announcements expected in the coming months.
PCB Chief Executive Salman Naseer said the expansion reflects the league’s growing popularity and financial success.
“The PSL has become one of the most recognised T20 brands globally. Expanding to eight teams and more venues is a natural step in its growth and reach,” Naseer stated.
Six Venues Across Pakistan
For the first time, the tournament will be staged in six host cities, with Faisalabad and Peshawar expected to join the existing venues — Lahore, Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Multan.
The addition of Imran Khan Stadium in Peshawar and Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad aims to spread cricket fever deeper into regions with passionate fan bases and strong domestic roots.
The PCB confirmed that necessary stadium renovations and facility upgrades are already underway to meet international standards before the start of Season 11.
Boost for Regional Cricket and Economy
The expansion is expected to create hundreds of local jobs, boost tourism, and enhance sports infrastructure in smaller cities.
Cricket analysts believe this move will also broaden the player pool, giving emerging talent from underrepresented regions a chance to shine on the PSL stage.
“More teams mean more opportunity — not only for cricketers but also for local businesses and fans who will get to experience world-class T20 cricket in their own cities,” said a PCB spokesperson.
Challenges Ahead
While excitement builds, experts caution that adding new teams comes with challenges — from ensuring competitive balance to managing scheduling and player workload.
Additionally, the PCB will need to finalise revenue-sharing agreements and broadcast rights adjustments to accommodate the expanded format.
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A New Chapter for Pakistan Cricket
Since its debut in 2016, the PSL has grown into one of the world’s top T20 leagues, attracting major international stars and millions of global viewers.
With Season 11’s expansion to eight teams and six venues, the league is poised to enter a new era — one that not only deepens its domestic roots but also strengthens Pakistan’s reputation as a major cricketing nation.
