The highly anticipated ninth edition of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL-9) is all set to commence on February 17, 2024, at the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) headquarters in Lahore. The marquee event promises to deliver exhilarating T20 cricket, featuring top teams from across the country. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the tournament schedule, venue details, and key matchups.
Tournament Overview
The tournament will feature six teams, with Lahore Qalandars, the two-time winners and defending champions, taking on Islamabad United, winners of the 2016 and 2018 editions, in the opening clash. The action-packed T20 extravaganza will unfold in four cities: Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi, culminating in the final at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi on March 18.
Schedule Highlights
Opening Match
- Date: February 17, 2024
- Teams: Lahore Qalandars vs Islamabad United
- Venue: PCB Headquarters, Lahore
Final
- Date: March 18, 2024
- Venue: National Bank Stadium, Karachi
City-wise Breakdown
| City | Matches Hosted |
|---|---|
| Karachi | 11 |
| Lahore | 9 |
| Multan | 5 |
| Rawalpindi | 9 |
Key Matchups
Lahore Qalandars vs Karachi Kings
- 1st Match: February 24, 2024
- Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
- 2nd Match: March 9, 2024
- Venue: National Bank Stadium, Karachi
Team-wise Home Matches
- Kings, Qalandars, Sultans, and United: 5 matches each at their home ground.
- Peshawar Zalmi: 4 matches at Pindi Cricket Stadium.
- Quetta Gladiators: 3 matches each in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi; 1 match at Multan Cricket Stadium.
Tournament Format
Similar to the previous edition, PSL-9 will be held in two legs. The first leg will take place at Multan Cricket Stadium and Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, hosting 14 matches from February 17 to 27. The second leg will move to Rawalpindi’s Pindi Cricket Stadium and Karachi’s National Bank Stadium, where 16 matches will be played from February 28 to March 12. The tournament will then shift entirely to Karachi for the playoffs.
Statement from PCB Management Committee Chair
Zaka Ashraf, Chair of the PCB Management Committee, expressed excitement about the upcoming tournament, stating, “We are thrilled to announce that the HBL Pakistan Super League’s ninth edition is set to kick off on February 17, showcasing the best of T20 cricket in four cities across Pakistan.”
He added, “The decision to host the marquee event across these cities is a testament to our commitment to bring top-notch cricket to fans across the country. We believe that hosting matches in these venues not only adds to the excitement for fans but also promotes cricket at the grassroots level. As we gear up for this spectacular event, we look forward to witnessing thrilling action and creating unforgettable moments for cricket enthusiasts worldwide.”
Cricket enthusiasts can mark their calendars for this cricketing spectacle that promises to captivate fans with intense competition and memorable moments. Stay tuned for more updates as HBL PSL-9 unfolds its exciting journey from Lahore on February 17!