Latest news with #HBL-PSL-X
Business Recorder
02-07-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
HBL-PSL management, stakeholders discuss next event
LAHORE: The management of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) led by Chief Executive Officer, Salman Naseer held workshops with all stakeholders of HBL-PSL including representatives of franchises, title sponsor, media rights partners and commercial partners on Wednesday at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore. During the meeting, the PSL management presented data and analytics reflecting the league's growth over the past 10 years. A statistical comparison between the ninth and tenth editions of the league was also shared. The 10th edition of the HBL-PSL also known as HBL-PSL-X was played from 11th April to 25th May with four cities –Karachi, Lahore, Multan and Rawalpindi hosting a total of 34 matches. The final of the marquee event was played before a packed Gaddafi Stadium between Lahore Qalandars and Quetta Gladiators, with the former winning the tournament for the third time in past four years. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi said, 'The Pakistan Super league has not only grown into a premier cricketing brand but has also served as a symbol of resilience, hope and unity during challenging times. From navigating difficult circumstances to bringing international stars to our home grounds, the PSL has remained steadfast in delivering quality cricket and unforgettable moments for millions of fans across the globe. This journey, filled with passion, drama and thrilling performances, truly belongs to our people.' Naqvi said, 'I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our franchise owners, HBL – our title sponsor and long-term partner, players, broadcasters, commercial partners, security agencies and of course, our passionate fans. Without their unwavering support and belief, this success would not have been possible. As we look to the future, the PCB remains committed to strengthening and evolving the league further. We envision an even more competitive, inclusive and globally engaging tournament that continues to bring joy to cricket fans and honour to Pakistan.' HBL-PSL Chief Executive Officer Salman Naseer said, 'The Pakistan Super League has come a long way since its inception. Marking a decade of cricketing excellence, the 10th edition of the HBL-PSL was more than just a milestone – it was a celebration of passion, resilience and unity. HBL-PSL- X shattered numerous records, from viewership to fan engagement, reaffirming the league's place as a powerhouse in the world of sports.' He said, 'The substantial growth in digital engagement, particularly the 647 per cent surge in live streaming, is a testament to the league's increasing popularity among cricket fans. We are proud to present these figures to our long-standing partners, whose continued support has been instrumental in shaping the PSL into one of the most celebrated T20 leagues worldwide. These numbers reflect the trust of our fans and the relentless efforts of everyone involved in the league's success.' He said, 'The diverse and widespread viewership, both in urban and rural areas, shows that the PSL has become a household name across the country. With 3.4 billion live streaming views and a strong digital following of 22 million, the league continues to set new benchmarks in Pakistan's sporting landscape. PSL is not just a tournament; it's a movement that unites fans across the globe. As we look ahead towards the next decade, we cannot wait to unravel new stories and thrilling experiences for the fans. Exciting times ahead!' Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
26-05-2025
- Sport
- Business Recorder
Shaheen Shah Afridi to lead Team of HBL-PSL-X
LAHORE: Pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, who led Lahore Qalandars to their third title in four years in HBL-PSL last night, has been named captain of the Team of HBL-PSL-X. The team was selected by the esteemed members of the commentary team. The HBL-PSL-X was played across four cities; Karachi, Lahore, Multan and Rawalpindi from 11th April to 25th May. In the final, Qalandars defeated Quetta Gladiators by six wickets at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The 25 year old Shaheen, not only claimed the Fazal Mahmood Cap for finishing as the highest wicket taker, 19 dismissals in 13 matches, but also leads a team that features two of his Qalandars teammates. Sikandar Raza (11 matches, 254 runs, 2x50s, 10 wickets) and Fakhar Zaman (13 matches, 439 runs, 4x50s) earned their places on the back of stellar performances in the tournament. Gladiators – the winners of the 2019 edition of HBL-PSL are also represented by three players. 23 year old Pakistan international Hasan Nawaz, who was also adjudged best batter of the tournament (12 matches, 399 runs, 1x100, 3x50s) is joined by experienced all-rounder Faheem Ashraf (12 matches, 163 runs, 17 wickets) and 27 year old spinner Abrar Ahmed (12 matches, 17 wickets). Karachi Kings, who secured third place on the points table before losing to Qalandars in Eliminator-1 on 22nd May at Gaddafi Stadium, also have three representatives. Captain David Warner (11 matches, 368 runs, 3x50s), opening partner James Vince (378 runs, 1x100, 3x50s) and pacer Hasan Ali (10 matches, 17 wickets) all feature in the XI. Khushdil Shah (11 matches, 253 runs, 1x50, seven wickets) is named as the 12th man. Islamabad United's Sahibzada Farhan, who earned the Hanif Mohammad Cap for leading the run charts with 449 runs in 12 matches (1x100, 3x50s), is the sole representative from his side. Completing the line-up is Peshawar Zalmi's emerging talent, fast bowler Ali Raza, who took 12 wickets in nine matches. It may be noted that Shaheen Shah Afridi's Lahore Qalandars romped to their third HBL PSL title in four years as they beat Quetta Gladiators by six wickets in a thrilling last-over finale here at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore on Sunday night in front of a packed house. The successful 202-run chase by Qalandars is also the highest target surmounted by a team in a T20 final. Squad: Fakhar Zaman (Lahore Qalandars), Sahibzada Farhan (Islamabad United) (wicket-keeper), David Warner (Karachi Kings), James Vince (Karachi Kings), Hasan Nawaz (Quetta Gladiators), Sikandar Raza (Lahore Qalandars), Faheem Ashraf (Quetta Gladiators), Shaheen Shah Afridi (Lahore Qalandars) (captain), Hasan Ali (Karachi Kings), Ali Raza (Peshawar Zalmi) (emerging), Abrar Ahmed (Quetta Gladiators), Khushdil Shah (Karachi Kings) (12th). Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
22-05-2025
- Sport
- Business Recorder
Pakistan announces T20I squad for Bangladesh series
LAHORE: The selection committee has named a 16-member men's squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Bangladesh, with Salman Ali Agha continuing as captain of the team. There are two wicket keepers Mohammad Haris and Sahibzada Farhan while Babar Azam, Muhammad Rizwan and Shaheen Shah Afridi not included in the side. However, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Hasan Ali, Hassan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Wasim Junior, Muhammad Irfan Khan and Saim Ayub are back in the squad. All the three matches will be held at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, with the schedule set to be announced soon. The squad has been selected based on players' performances in the ongoing HBL-PSL-X, which concludes on 25th May. This series also marks the first assignment for newly appointed head coach Mike Hesson, a PCB spokesman, said. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has also announced the revised schedule for the highly anticipated three-match T20I series against Bangladesh. The series will take place at Lahore's iconic Gaddafi Stadium from May 28 to June 1, 2025. Pakistani squad: Salman Ali Agha (captain), Shadab Khan (vice-captain), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hassan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris (wicket-keeper), Mohammad Wasim Jr, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wicket-keeper) and Saim Ayub. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
15-05-2025
- Sport
- Business Recorder
Shakib, Rajapaksa join Lahore Qalandars for remainder of PSL 10
Lahore Qalandars have bolstered their squad for the remainder of the Pakistan Super League season 10 with the inclusion of Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan and Sri Lankan batter Bhanuka Rajapaksa. Shakib, who joins on May 17 in Islamabad, will replace New Zealand's Daryl Mitchell, ruled out due to a hand injury sustained on May 4. With over 7,400 T20 runs and 492 wickets, Shakib brings vast experience and all-round strength as Qalandars eye the knockout stage. Meanwhile, Rajapaksa will replace England's Tom Curran, who has returned home following an ankle injury. Foreign players likely to rejoin remaining matches of HBL-PSL-X Known for his power-hitting and a T20 strike rate above 140, Rajapaksa is expected to add middle-order firepower. His wicketkeeping skills offer added depth to the squad. Team Director Sameen Rana welcomed both additions, calling them 'impact players' with the potential to lift Qalandars' performance in the crucial phase of the tournament. Zimbabwe's Sikandar Raza also rejoined the team last night. Further updates to the squad will be shared in due course.
Business Recorder
15-05-2025
- Sport
- Business Recorder
Foreign players likely to rejoin remaining matches of HBL-PSL-X
LAHORE: English cricketer Alex Hales is set to rejoin Islamabad United for the remaining matches of the HBL-PSL-X, which resumes on May 17. Sources said that Alex has confirmed his availability for the remaining matches of the HBL-PSL-X. The franchises are actively working to bring their overseas players back to Pakistan as preparations for the remaining fixtures continue. Alex Hales expressed his excitement, stating, 'Islamabad United was my first PSL team. The fans and franchise have always supported me, and I'm thrilled to return to Pakistan to play again.' Earlier, David Warner and Ben McDermott of Karachi Kings also confirmed their return to Pakistan for the rest of the tournament, the sources added. Meanwhile, James Vince and Mohammad Nabi have also agreed to return, although their arrival is subject to the issuance of NOCs and visas. However, the return of Kane Williamson and Tim Seifert appears unlikely. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
