Pakistan Super League (PSL) Chief Executive Officer Salman Naseer has officially confirmed the teams and venue for the opening match of the historic PSL 11.
Speaking to the media, Naseer announced that defending champions Lahore Qalandars will face tournament debutants Hyderabad Kingsmen in Lahore. The opening ceremony for PSL 11 will take place ahead of the match.
Naseer also stated that most matches in the first leg of PSL 11 will be held in Lahore. The full schedule is expected to be released later this week.
Recent reports suggested that the final of PSL 11 could potentially be held outside Pakistan to give overseas fans the opportunity to experience the league. When asked about the possibility of hosting a match abroad, Naseer said the idea is under consideration as the league continues to expand globally.
“The schedule will be announced later this week, so everything will become clear. But definitely, this was an issue under consideration, that our overseas Pakistanis also want to enjoy the PSL and experience it,” Naseer said.
He added that as the league continues to grow globally, there is consideration to take at least one match overseas. He said clarity on whether that would happen this year or next year would be provided by the end of the week.
Addressing questions about hosting PSL matches in Peshawar, Naseer said the league’s management conducted a site visit to assess the stadium’s condition before making any decisions.
“Our team visited the Peshawar stadium and found that a few things were not up to the mark, including the ground conditions. That’s why we shifted the National T20 Cup. Our effort is to take the PSL to Peshawar. Everything will be clarified by the end of this week,” he said.
PSL 11 is scheduled to run from March 26 to May 3, and this season will feature an expanded eight-team format with two new franchises added to the league as part of its growth plans.
