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Asad Shah, Usama Ali headline top players to watch in PTPL 2025

Asad Shah, widely known as AB 360, is set to be one of the biggest attractions of the UBL Ameen Pakistan Tape-Ball Premier League (PTPL) 2025 as he leads Karachi Kids in the platinum category.

A powerful all-rounder and right-hand batter, Asad has built a reputation for explosive stroke play and impactful spells with the ball, making him a match-winner in pressure situations.

Another Karachi Kids batter expected to light up the tournament is Usama Ali, popularly called Usama Sialkot.

A right-hand batter known for clean hitting and consistency, Usama adds stability to Karachi Kids’ batting lineup and remains a key option in crunch moments.

Zain Ali, nicknamed Zain Lefty, brings versatility to Karachi Kids with his left-hand batting and left-arm fast bowling.

The platinum-category player from Sialkot is regarded as a dynamic all-round option who can change the momentum of a match within a few overs.

Hyderabad Hunters will bank heavily on their captain Haris Ali Khan, a platinum-category batsman from Karachi. Known for his leadership and aggressive batting approach, Haris sets the tone at the top and remains central to Hyderabad Hunters’ title ambitions.

From Quetta Qurbans, captain M Hamza Baig, also known as HB, stands out as a technically sound left-hand batsman in the platinum category.

His calm presence and ability to strike hard make him a crucial asset in high-pressure games.

Larkana Warriors’ Malik Junaid, nicknamed Juni, is another platinum-category batter to watch.

A stylish right-hand batsman from Karachi, Junaid is known for his aggressive shot selection and ability to accelerate.

Peshawar Shaheens will look towards their captain Bahadur Ali, famously called Bahadur Lefty, to lead from the front.

The platinum-category left-hand batsman combines experience with power-hitting, making him one of the most reliable performers in tape-ball cricket.

The PTPL 2025 is being organized by Badar Expo Solutions in collaboration with the Pakistan Tape-Ball Foundation (PTBF) and will feature free entry for all fans.

Matches will be broadcast live on Geo Super and BTV, while fans can also stream the action on YouTube via Badar Television.

International viewers can follow all matches live on YouTube.

Spectators and players attending the tournament will also have the opportunity to win free plot files, as organizers introduce performance-based and registration-based reward initiatives.

Under a partnership with GFS Builders & Developers, any player who hits three consecutive sixes or claims a hat-trick in a single match will receive a plot file.

Spectators can participate by registering through the Badar Expo application, with selected participants winning plot files through a lucky draw.

Other prizes include the latest iPhone 17 Pro Max, bikes, and additional rewards.

A total of eight teams will compete in PTPL 2025: Hyderabad Hunters, Karachi Kids, Lahore Lions, Larkana Warriors, Peshawar Shaheens, Quetta Qurbans, Rawalpindi Royals, and Sukkur Strikers.

‘That single Tauseef took was actually the six,’ Javed Miandad recalls iconic six against india

Javed Miandad recalled one of the most iconic moments in cricket history, saying that the crucial single taken by Tauseef Ahmed effectively set up his famous last-ball six against India.

Speaking about the Austral-Asia Cup final of 1985–86 at the PTPL opening ceremony in Karachi on Sunday, which included Javed Miandad and off-spinner Tauseef Ahmed, Tauseef said the plan was always clear when Pakistan needed five runs off the final two balls with only one wicket remaining.

He revealed that the sole focus was to get Miandad on strike at any cost.

Miandad later explained how decisive that moment was, saying the single taken by Tauseef Ahmed “was actually the six,” proving to be the turning point and highlighting the importance of presence of mind under pressure.

Tauseef recalled that Miandad had given clear instructions in the middle.

“Miandad had told us to stop the ball and run immediately, no matter where it went,” Tauseef said.

He added that the discussion between the batters was straightforward.

Whether a single was available or not, it had to be taken quickly so Miandad could face the final delivery.

“Had Zulqarnain not been dismissed, Miandad would not have had two balls to work with,” said Tauseef.

Miandad also guided him to stay at the crease, take the calculated risk for a run, and trust the plan.

Miandad also advised the younger generation to play smartly, stay calm, and then play the ball wisely.

The moment is etched in cricket history as Miandad struck a towering six off Chetan Sharma on the final ball to seal the title for Pakistan.

Javed said the memory remains special because it came against India and under immense pressure.

The Austral-Asia Cup final continues to be regarded as one of Pakistan cricket’s most cherished victories, with Miandad’s six symbolising composure, trust, and teamwork at the highest level.

“Tauseef Ahmed’s single and Javed Miandad’s six,” as fans often say, together they created a timeless moment that still lives on in cricket history.

How to watch PTPL 2025 live in Pakistan, worldwide

The PTPL 2025 is being organized by Badar Expo Solutions in collaboration with the Pakistan Tape-Ball Foundation (PTBF) and will feature free entry for all fans.

Broadcast and Coverage

Matches of PTPL 2025 will be broadcast live on Geo Super and BTV, while fans can also stream the action on YouTube via Badar Television. International spectators can follow the matches live on YouTube.

Spectators and players attending the UBL Ameen Pakistan Tape-Ball Premier League (PTPL) 2025 will have the opportunity to win free plot files, as organizers introduce both performance-based and registration-based reward initiatives for the tournament.

How players can win free plot files

For players, Badar Expo Solutions has launched a performance-based reward initiative in partnership with GFS Builders & Developers.

Under this scheme, any player who hits three consecutive sixes or take hat-trick in a single match will receive a plot file from GFS Builders & Developers.

The initiative aims to reward exceptional on-field performances and encourage competitive cricket throughout the tournament.

How spectators and visitors can get free plots

Spectators and visitors can also win free plot files by registering through the Badar Expo application.

Once registered, the filtered contacts will be processed through a lucky draw system.

Selected registered spectators or visitors will then receive free plot files.

In addition to plot files, attendees will have a chance to win other high-value prizes, including the latest iPhone 17 Pro Max, bikes, and more.

Teams participating in PTPL 2025

A total of eight teams will compete in the tournament: Hyderabad Hunters, Karachi Kids, Lahore Lions, Larkana Warriors, Peshawar Shaheens, Quetta Qurbans, Rawalpindi Royals, and Sukkur Strikers.

PTPL Schedule

S. No.DateTeam 1vsTeam 2Timings
122-Dec-25Lahore LionsvsSukkur Strikers6:15 pm – 8:45 pm
222-Dec-25Larkana WarriorsvsHyderabad Hunters9:00 pm – 11:30 pm
323-Dec-25Quetta QurbansvsSukkur Strikers6:15 pm – 8:45 pm
423-Dec-25Karachi KidsvsLarkana Warriors9:00 pm – 11:30 pm
524-Dec-25Quetta QurbansvsPeshawar Shaheens6:15 pm – 8:45 pm
624-Dec-25Lahore LionsvsRawalpindi Royals9:00 pm – 11:30 pm
725-Dec-25Karachi KidsvsPeshawar Shaheens6:15 pm – 8:45 pm
825-Dec-25Hyderabad HuntersvsRawalpindi Royals9:00 pm – 11:30 pm
926-Dec-25Karachi KidsvsQuetta Qurbans6:15 pm – 8:45 pm
1026-Dec-25Larkana WarriorsvsRawalpindi Royals9:00 pm – 11:30 pm
1127-Dec-25Peshawar ShaheensvsLahore Lions6:15 pm – 8:45 pm
1227-Dec-25Hyderabad HuntersvsSukkur Strikers9:00 pm – 11:30 pm
1328-Dec-25Karachi KidsvsRawalpindi Royals6:15 pm – 8:45 pm
1428-Dec-25Quetta QurbansvsLahore Lions9:00 pm – 11:30 pm
1529-Dec-25Larkana WarriorsvsSukkur Strikers6:15 pm – 8:45 pm
1629-Dec-25Hyderabad HuntersvsPeshawar Shaheens9:00 pm – 11:30 pm
1730-Dec-25Lahore LionsvsKarachi Kids6:15 pm – 8:45 pm
1830-Dec-25Rawalpindi RoyalsvsSukkur Strikers9:00 pm – 11:30 pm
1931-Dec-25Quetta QurbansvsHyderabad Hunters6:15 pm – 8:45 pm
2031-Dec-25Larkana WarriorsvsPeshawar Shaheens9:00 pm – 11:30 pm
211-Jan-26Rawalpindi RoyalsvsQuetta Qurbans6:15 pm – 8:45 pm
221-Jan-26Hyderabad HuntersvsLahore Lions9:00 pm – 11:30 pm
232-Jan-26Rawalpindi RoyalsvsPeshawar Shaheens6:15 pm – 8:45 pm
242-Jan-26Karachi KidsvsHyderabad Hunters9:00 pm – 11:30 pm
253-Jan-26Quetta QurbansvsLarkana Warriors6:15 pm – 8:45 pm
263-Jan-26Sukkur StrikersvsPeshawar Shaheens9:00 pm – 11:30 pm
274-Jan-26Lahore LionsvsLarkana Warriors6:15 pm – 8:45 pm
284-Jan-26Karachi KidsvsSukkur Strikers9:00 pm – 11:30 pm
295-Jan-26Semi Finalist 1vsSemi Finalist 46:15 pm – 8:45 pm
305-Jan-26Semi Finalist 2vsSemi Finalist 39:00 pm – 11:30 pm
316-Jan-26Winner 1vsWinner 28:00 pm – 11:00 pm

Squads

HYDERABAD HUNTERS
S.NOPLAYER NAMESPROFESSIONCITYCATEGORY
1Haris Ali Khan (C)BatsmanKarachiPlatinum
2Majid AliBowlerAttock
3Mimran KhanBatsmanAttock
4AshrafBowlerTaunsasharif
5Raza ChandioBatsmanKarachi
6Amin UllahBowlerPeshawarGold
7Maaz UllahBowlerPeshawar
8Ubaid KhanBatsmanKarachi
9Dawood Muhammad SulemanBatsmanSWAT
10Yahya KhanBatsmanKarachi
11Farman LeftyBowlerSargodhaSilver
12Owais PathanBatsmanHyderabad
13Shakeel ShahBatsmanKashmir
14Muhammad MoizBatsmanKarachi
15Irfan NazeerBatsmanGujranwala
16Waleed AhmedBatsmanKarachiReserves
17Hammad KhanBatsmanKarachi
18Karim KhanAll-RounderKarachi
19ZiaullahBowlerKarachi
KARACHI KIDS
S.NOPLAYERS NAMENICK NAMEPROFESSIONCITYCATEGORY
1Asad Shah ©AB 360All Rounder, Right Hand BatsmanKarachi, SindhPlatinum
2Muhammad RashidRashid LeftyRight-Arm FastGujranwala, Punjab
3Muzmai KamokiStone ManRight Hand BatsmanKamoke, Punjab
4Usama AliUsama SialkotRight Hand BatsmanSialkot, Punjab
5Zain AliZain LeftyLeft Hand Batsman, Left-Arm FastSialkot, Punjab
6Asif PathanPathanRight-Arm FastKarachi, Sindh
7Zaheer AhmedZaheer KaliaRight Hand Fast BowlerLahore, Punjab
8Muhammad UmairUmair DaskaRight-Arm FastSialkot, PunjabGold
9Shafi UllahShafi AghaRight Hand BatsmanKarachi, Sindh
10Zakir Ullah JanZakir JaniRight Hand Batsman, Right-Arm FastKanju, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
11Ejaz AhmedPollardRight-Arm FastKarachi, Sindh
12Ahmed AltafAltafAll Rounder, Right Hand BatsmanKarachi, SindhSilver
13Arsalan Jamshed ButtButtRight Hand BatsmanGujrat, Punjab
14Arbaz AliArbazRight Hand Batsman, Wicket KeeperKarachi, Sindh
15M Adil QadeerAdil SohawaRight Hand BatsmanSohawa, PunjabLocal
16Muhammad DilshadDilshad BreakerRight-Arm FastJhelum, Punjab
17Abdul SalamSalam SwatRight-Arm FastSwat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
18Ali AslamAslamRight-Arm FastKarachi, Sindh
QUETTA QURBANS
S.NOPLAYERS NAMENICK NAMEPROFESSIONCITYCATEGORY
1M Hamza Baig©HBLeft Hand BatsmanKarachi, SindhPlatinum
2Junaid AfridiAfridiRight Hand BatsmanKarachi, Sindh
3Kashif JakloJokloAll RounderKarachi, Sindh
4Rehman KayaniKayaniRight Hand BatsmanKarachi, Sindh
5Waleed KhanPathanAll RounderKarachi, Sindh
7Abdul Muqeet RajputRight-Arm FastKarachi, SindhGold
8Asad KherKherLeft-Arm FastKarachi, Sindh
9M Azaz ZahidAzaz PathanRight-Arm FastKarachi, Sindh
10Qurban AliBrohiRight Hand BatsmanKarachi, Sindh
11Syed NasirStrong manRight Hand Batsman, Wicket KeeperKarachi, Sindh
6Muhammad KaifKaifAll RounderKarachi, SindhSilver
12Essa KhanEssaRight-Arm FastKarachi, Sindh
13Abdul SamadSamadAll RounderKarachi, Sindh
14Abdullah Rasheed KayaniKayaniLeft Hand BatsmanKarachi, Sindh
15Hassan BaigRight Hand BatsmanKarachi, Sindh
16Taufeeq PathanPathanRight Hand BatsmanKarachi, SindhGold
17Wahid Ali TabassumWAT-LeftyLeft-Arm FastKarachi, SindhLocal
18Abdul RehmanAll RounderKarachi, SindhSilver
19M Saad IshaqAll RounderKarachi, Sindh
LARKANA WARRIORS
S.NOPLAYERS NAMENICK NAMEPROFESSIONCITYCATEGORY
1Malik JunaidJuniRight Hand BatsmanKarachi, SindhPlatinum
2KhurramRabadaRight Hand Batsman, Right-Arm FastLahore, Punjab
3M HasnainPindi ExpressRight-Arm FastRawalpindi, Punjab
4M Jahangir AwanChandu ChishtianRight Hand BatsmanChishtian, Punjab
5Umair ButtMarie ButtRight Hand BatsmanFaisalabad, Punjab
6Abdul MajeedMajeedAll Rounder, Right Hand BatsmanHyderabad, Sindh
7Muhammad SalmanSalman LeftyLeft-Arm FastBuner, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
8ShahidShahRight Hand BatsmanKarachi, Sindh
9Tahir NazirTahiri PindiAll RounderIslamabad, Capital Territory
10Zubair KheerioKheerioAll Rounder, Right Hand BatsmanHyderabad, SindhGold
11Minhaj Ur RehmanMinhajAll Rounder, Right Hand BatsmanKarachi, Sindh
12Adnan KhanAD KhanAll Rounder, Right Hand BatsmanKarachi, SindhSilver
13Ageel PathanPathanAll Rounder, Right Hand BatsmanKarachi, Sindh
14ImtiazImtiiRight Hand Batsman, Right-Arm FastHyderabad, Sindh
15Mesum KhanMKAll Rounder, Right Hand BatsmanKarachi, Sindh
16Rehman TanoliTanoliLeft Hand BatsmanKarachi, Sindh
17TalatTalatAll Rounder, Right Hand BatsmanKarachi, Sindh
18Saadullah MalikMalikAll Rounder, Right Hand BatsmanKarachi, SindhLocal
PESHAWAR SHAHEENS
S.NOPLAYERS NAMENICK NAMEPROFESSIONCITYCATEGORY
1Bahadur Ali ©Bahadur leftyLeft Hand BatsmanKarachi, SindhPlatinum
2Dawood KhanDKRight Hand BatsmanKarachi, Sindh
3Irshad AfridiIrshad AfridiRight-Arm FastPeshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
4Muhammad ZadZad LeftyLeft-Arm FastSialkot, Punjab
5Sarmad HameedSarmadRight Hand BatsmanJhelum, Punjab
6Ubaid Ur RehmanUbaid PathanRight Hand Batsman, All RounderKarachi, Sindh
7Nasir PathanPathanRight Hand BatsmanFaisalabad, Punjab
8Zabi UllahZabiLeft-Arm FastKarachi, Sindh
9AbdullahShimvariLeft Hand Batsman, Right-Arm FastPeshawar, Khyber PakhtunkhwaGold
10Fazal Ul RehmanFazal AfridiLeft-Arm FastKarachi, Sindh
11Shiraz Ali KhanShirazLeft Hand Batsman, Wicket KeeperKarachi, Sindh
12Syed Jahangir ShahAghaLeft Hand BatsmanQuetta, BalochistanSilver
13Muhammad MairajMairaj BurfatRight Hand Batsman, Wicket KeeperKarachi, Sindh
14ArsalanPageeRight Hand BatsmanKarachi, Sindh
15Inam Ullah KhanInam LeftyLeft-Arm FastLahore, PunjabLocal
16Salman KhanSallo PeshawarRight Hand BatsmanMingora, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
17M Kashif KhanKashifRight Hand BatsmanKarachi, Sindh
18Habibullah AkbarHKRight Hand BatsmanKarachi, Sindh

Opening ceremony

The Pakistan Tape-Ball Premier League 2025 kicked off with an opening ceremony in Karachi on December 21 at 7:00 PM at the Naya Nazimabad Cricket Stadium.

The ceremony featured a live music performance and an exhibition match involving Pakistani celebrities, including Humayun Saeed, Saud, Jan Rambo, Noman Habib, and others.

Entry to the event was free for all.

Role of Pakistan Tape-Ball Foundation

The Pakistan Tape-Ball Foundation is the national authority for tape-ball cricket in the country.

It oversees rules, major tournaments, and talent development, while working to expand opportunities for players across Pakistan.

The PTPL 2025 is expected to further strengthen the growth and visibility of tape-ball cricket nationwide.

The PTPL 2025 opening ceremony, organized by Badar Expo Solutions in collaboration with PTBF, set the tone for a thrilling and competitive season.

Pakistan U-19 crush India U-19 by 191 runs in Asia Cup Final

Pakistan U-19 triumphed in the final of the ACC U-19 Asia Cup, defeating India U-19 by a massive margin of 191 runs.

Pakistan posted an impressive total of 347/8 in their 50 overs, with Sameer Minhas playing a remarkable knock of 172 runs off 113 balls.

His outstanding performance earned him the Player of the Match award, and he was also named Player of the Tournament for his consistent brilliance throughout the competition.

India, chasing a daunting target, struggled against Pakistan’s bowlers and were all out for just 156 runs in 26.2 overs.

Deepesh Devendran top-scored for India with a 36 off 16 balls, but it wasn’t enough to mount a serious challenge. Ali Raza was the star with the ball for Pakistan, taking 4 wickets for 42 runs in 6.2 overs.

Pakistan’s dominant performance was evident as they controlled both the bat and ball, securing the victory with ease. With this win, Pakistan U-19 showcased their strength and talent, claiming the 2025 ACC U-19 Asia Cup title in style.

The match was held at ICC Academy Ground, Dubai, with India winning the toss and opting to bowl first. However, Pakistan’s batsmen had other plans, setting up an unassailable total.

Where to watch Pakistan vs India U19 Asia Cup final in Pakistan

Pakistan will face India in the final of the ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup on Sunday, December 21, at the ICC Academy Ground in Dubai.

The first ball of the match is set for 10 am PST.

Where to watch:

Fans can watch the live broadcast on PTV Sports, while digital streaming will be available on Tamasha for those following online.

Since its inception in 1989, Pakistan, winners of the 2004 and 2006 ICC Men’s U19 World Cups, has yet to claim the U19 Asia Cup title in its 11 editions.

India have won the tournament seven times, while Bangladesh took the title in 2023 and 2024, and Afghanistan lifted it in 2017.

The 2012 final between Pakistan and India ended in a tie, resulting in a shared trophy.

In the ongoing tournament, Pakistan won two of their three Group ‘A’ matches and earned a spot in the final after defeating Bangladesh under 19 by eight wickets in the second semi-final on December 19.

The team will rely on batting star Sameer Minhas, who has scored 299 runs in four matches, including a century and a half-century.

On the bowling side, right-arm pacer Abdul Subhan has taken 11 wickets from three matches, while left-arm fast bowler Mohammad Sayyam has claimed eight wickets.

In their group-stage clash, India defeated Pakistan by 90 runs, adding extra excitement and anticipation to the final showdown.

Pakistan 15-member squad for the final:

Farhan Yousaf (captain), Usman Khan (vice-captain), Abdul Subhan, Ahmed Hussain, Ali Hassan Baloch, Ali Raza, Daniyal Ali Khan, Hamza Zahoor (wk), Huzaifa Ahsan, Momin Qamar, Mohammad Huzaifa, Mohammad Sayyam, Mohammad Shayan (wk), Niqab Shafiq, and Sameer Minhas.

These top unsold IPL players create big opportunities for PSL franchises

Several well-known overseas cricketers went unsold in the latest Indian Premier League (IPL) mini-auction, creating a strong opportunity for Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchises ahead of PSL 11.

The IPL held a relatively smaller mini-auction this year at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, marking the third straight time the event took place outside India.

With only 77 total slots available, including a limited number for overseas players, many established foreign names failed to attract bids despite impressive T20 credentials.

As a result, the PSL now has a wide pool of experienced international players to choose from.

These cricketers bring proven skills, global exposure, and the ability to strengthen team combinations, especially in key areas such as power-hitting, fast bowling, and spin options.

The list of unsold players includes top talents from Australia, England, New Zealand, South Africa, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and the West Indies.

Top foreign players who went unsold in the latest IPL auction include Jake Fraser-McGurk, Devon Conway, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Jonny Bairstow, Jamie Smith, Gerald Coetzee, Spencer Johnson, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Michael Bracewell, and Daryl Mitchell.

Other notable names include Gus Atkinson, Wiaan Mulder, Maheesh Theekshana, Wahidullah Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Sean Abbott, Dasun Shanaka, Waqar Salamkheil, Dan Lawrence, Taskin Ahmed, Richard Gleeson, Alzarri Joseph, Riley Meredith, Jhye Richardson, Connor Esterhuizen, Daniel Lategan, Nathan Smith, and Will Sutherland.

Many of them have performed consistently in international cricket and major T20 leagues around the world.

With PSL 11 approaching, franchises are expected to closely monitor these players.

The league has often attracted overseas stars who value regular playing time and a competitive environment.

In previous seasons, several high-profile players opted for the PSL due to its growing reputation and strong viewership.

The availability of these foreign players could significantly raise the quality and excitement of the upcoming PSL season, while also giving unsold IPL players a chance to showcase their skills on a major stage.

The PSL 11 auction will be held on January 8 2026.

PSL 11 set to feature 44 matches across five cities: reports

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 format has been revealed, with the eleventh edition set to take place from March 26 to May 3 across five cities in Pakistan, according to Geo News.

The report says a total of 44 matches are expected to be played during the tournament.

According to details, the event will feature eight teams competing in a single-league format, with each team set to play at least 10 matches.

The entire tournament is expected to be completed in 39 days.

Geo News further reported that the first phase of PSL 11 will include 28 matches, after which the eight teams will be divided into two groups of four for the second phase.

In the Super Four stage, each team will play three matches.

The top two teams from each group are then expected to advance to the playoffs.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has also said that international cricket will be played at the Muzaffarabad Stadium, adding that efforts are underway to host Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 matches at the venue.

According to Geo News, Naqvi made the remarks while chairing a PCB Board of Governors meeting held via video link.

During the meeting, members praised the successful PSL roadshows held in London and New York, commending the chairman and his team for their hard work and professional approach.

Speaking on the occasion, Naqvi said, “The success of the PSL roadshows is a collective achievement of the PCB and the entire PSL team, and everyone worked tirelessly day and night to make PSL an international brand.”

The meeting also approved the second phase of renovation work at the National Cricket Stadium Karachi.

In addition, it was decided that the LCCA Ground would be upgraded on the lines of the Oval Ground.

The Board of Governors praised Mohsin Naqvi’s personal efforts in ensuring the continuation of Sri Lanka’s recent tour of Pakistan.

Responding to this, the PCB chairman said, “The credit for continuing the Sri Lankan tour does not go to me alone but to the entire team. We worked with sincerity, and Allah Almighty helped us.”

The meeting was attended by Board of Governors members Ismail Qureshi, Tariq Sarwar, Sajjad Ali Khokhar, Anwar Ghani, Zaheer Abbas, and Tanveer Ahmed.

Zafarullah, Mustafa Ramday, Adnan Malik, the Additional Secretary of the Cabinet Division, PCB Chief Operating Officer Sameer Ahmed, and PSL Chief Executive Officer Salman Naseer were also present.

Senior officials, including the Chief Financial Officer, directors of infrastructure, domestic cricket, commercial departments, and other relevant officers, also attended the session.

PSL 11 set to start on same day as IPL 19

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 is scheduled to begin on March 26, 2026, the same day as the Indian Premier League (IPL 19), raising anticipation and potential challenges for franchises, according to ESPNCricinfo.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that the eleventh edition of the PSL will run until May 3, giving the tournament a 39-day window, while the IPL 2026 is scheduled to run from March 26 to May 31.

This PSL season will feature eight teams, following the addition of two new franchises.

Despite the expanded lineup, the PCB has decided to keep the schedule compact rather than extending the tournament.

In previous seasons with six teams, the PSL followed a double round-robin format with 34 matches, where each team played the others twice before the top four advanced to the playoffs.

While the full fixture list for PSL 11 has yet to be announced, the shorter timeframe is expected to include more double-headers and could see a modified competition structure.

The PSL calendar has faced disruptions in recent years.

Last season, the tournament was split into two legs after the Pakistan-India conflict delayed proceedings by 10 days, although all matches were eventually completed within 34 days.

Earlier editions of the league, up to PSL 9, were usually held in February and March.

However, ICC tournaments and Pakistan’s busy home schedule have shifted the PSL into the April–May window in the last two seasons.

The overlap with IPL 19, expected to run until the end of May, may create challenges for player recruitment, as many top overseas cricketers often prioritize the IPL.

Nevertheless, the PCB believes the clash could have advantages, allowing franchises to retain players who commit to the PSL for the entire season.

Shaheen, Rizwan, Babar struggle to shine in BBL

Pakistan’s top cricket stars Shaheen Shah Afridi, Muhammad Rizwan and Babar Azam endured a difficult start to their Big Bash League (BBL) debut as all three failed to make the desired impact during their opening matches.

Shaheen Shah Afridi disastrous BBL debut:

Fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi had a disastrous beginning to his BBL campaign while representing Brisbane Heat against Melbourne Renegades in Victoria.

Playing his first-ever BBL match, Shaheen struggled with controlling the rhythm, conceding runs freely against aggressive Renegades batters.

He bowled only 2.4 overs, leaking 43 runs without taking a wicket, placing significant pressure on his side early in the innings.

Shaheen’s outing worsened when he delivered two beamers during his third over, forcing umpires to disallow him from bowling further in the match.

The left-arm pacer, who was the overall first pick in the BBL draft, looked unsettled and failed to execute his usual pace and swing effectively.

Cricket analysts noted that nerves and unfamiliar conditions may have played a role in Shaheen’s uncharacteristically erratic performance.

Babar Azam falls for single digit:

Meanwhile, Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam also experienced a disappointing start to his Big Bash League career with Sydney Sixers.

Opening the innings against Perth Scorchers at Perth Stadium, Babar scored just two runs off five deliveries before being dismissed early.

He lost his opening partner Daniel Hughes on the third ball, putting immediate pressure on him to anchor the innings.

Babar showed initial caution, blocking his first delivery, but struggled to rotate the strike and failed to find timing against the new ball.

Despite surviving a brief scare in the following over, he could not build momentum and eventually departed cheaply.

Muhammad Rizwan dismissed for 4:

Muhammad Rizwan also faced a challenging debut, failing to adjust quickly to the conditions during his first BBL appearance.

Rizwan was dismissed for a low score after attempting a slog sweep against spinner Paddy Dooley at GMHBA Stadium.

The shot resulted in a top edge, allowing Max Bryant to complete a straightforward catch in the deep.

Former Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist, in the commentary box, questioned Rizwan’s shot selection.

Expectations were high from Rizwan, given his international reputation, but he appeared uncomfortable during his brief stay at the crease.

Experts believe adapting to Australian pitches and conditions remains a key challenge for overseas players in the Big Bash League (BBL).

Despite the poor starts, fans remain hopeful that the Pakistani trio will bounce back strongly in upcoming matches.