PSL 11 Expansion: Two New Teams Set to Join the League
The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is gearing up for a major upgrade as its 11th edition will feature two new teams and expanded venues. PSL CEO Salman Naseer confirmed the development, announcing that the 2025 season will include eight franchises — the largest in the league’s history.
The announcement has ignited excitement among fans and investors alike, signaling a new era for the country’s top cricket tournament. Naseer revealed that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is finalizing logistics and plans to open the tender process for the new teams in November 2025.
Peshawar’s Imran Khan Stadium to Host Matches for the First Time
One of the most awaited developments is the inclusion of Peshawar’s Imran Khan Stadium (formerly Arbab Niaz Stadium) as a PSL venue. The stadium, nearing completion, is expected to meet international standards soon.
Salman Naseer stated, “InshaAllah, HBL PSL 11 will be played at six different venues. Peshawar’s stadium is almost ready but requires a long-term lease agreement before major investments.”
Once finalized, this venue will bring top-tier cricket back to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, giving local fans a chance to watch their favorite stars in action on home soil.
Faisalabad Added as a New Host City
Another major inclusion is Faisalabad, which will now host PSL 11 matches. The city’s cricket stadium has already been approved for international matches, making it a logical choice for the league’s expansion.
This move highlights PCB’s commitment to decentralizing cricket and promoting the sport across more regions in Pakistan. Faisalabad’s passionate fan base and vibrant sports culture are expected to add immense energy to the tournament.
History of PSL Expansion
Since its inception in 2016 with five teams, the Pakistan Super League has grown steadily. The addition of Multan Sultans in 2018 brought the total to six teams. With PSL 11, the league enters a new chapter, featuring eight franchises for the first time.
This expansion not only increases competition but also opens doors for new cities, investors, and fan communities to be part of Pakistan’s biggest cricket event.
Ali Tareen and PCB Clash Over PSL’s Direction
The expansion news comes amid rising tensions between Multan Sultans owner Ali Tareen and the Pakistan Cricket Board. The PCB recently issued a legal notice to Ali Tareen, threatening to terminate his contract following his public criticism of the board’s handling of the league.
Tareen accused the PCB of “failing to grow PSL as a strong international brand,” sparking a heated debate on social media. In response, Multan Sultans released a statement saying it was “disappointing that PCB considers constructive criticism a crime.”
Ali Tareen later posted a video message tearing up the legal notice, reaffirming his stance that transparency and innovation are essential for PSL’s long-term growth.
This clash has created buzz ahead of the league’s expansion, with many questioning whether franchise owners should have more say in PSL’s development strategy.
New Teams Expected to Attract Heavy Bidders
According to Salman Naseer, interest in acquiring new PSL teams is “very high,” with strong competition expected in the November bidding round. Investors from Pakistan and abroad have reportedly expressed keen interest, viewing PSL as a profitable sports property with growing media rights value.
With franchises like Lahore Qalandars, Karachi Kings, and Multan Sultans already having built loyal fan bases, the two new teams are expected to tap into emerging cricket markets in Pakistan.
PSL 11 Venues: Expanding to Six Cities
The upcoming PSL 11 matches will be played across six venues, making it the most geographically diverse edition yet. Likely venues include:
-
Lahore (Gaddafi Stadium)
-
Karachi (National Stadium)
-
Rawalpindi (Pindi Cricket Stadium)
-
Multan (Multan Cricket Stadium)
-
Peshawar (Imran Khan Stadium)
-
Faisalabad (Iqbal Stadium)
This nationwide expansion will not only bring cricket to new audiences but also contribute to local economies through tourism, hospitality, and infrastructure development.
Fans Welcome the Expansion With Enthusiasm
Fans across Pakistan have flooded social media with excitement, particularly those from Faisalabad and Peshawar, who have long waited for PSL matches in their hometowns. Many believe this move will help discover fresh talent and strengthen domestic cricket.
Cricket enthusiasts are also speculating about which cities will represent the two new franchises, with rumors suggesting Hyderabad, Sialkot, or Quetta expansion teams could be under consideration.
PSL’s Future Looks Bright Despite Challenges
Despite the recent controversies, PSL continues to be one of Pakistan’s strongest sports brands, attracting millions of viewers globally. The inclusion of more teams, cities, and investors reflects the league’s growing commercial success and its role in promoting Pakistan’s image internationally.
The Ali Tareen–PCB dispute may have temporarily overshadowed the excitement, but analysts agree that healthy debate is vital for progress. The coming months will reveal how PCB balances governance with franchise collaboration as it prepares for PSL’s next big leap.
Conclusion: A New Era for Pakistan Cricket
With two new teams, two new venues, and record-breaking participation, PSL 11 in 2025 is set to become the biggest season in the league’s history. Faisalabad and Peshawar’s inclusion marks a milestone for regional cricket, while ongoing debates about management and direction show the league’s evolution into a more mature and dynamic enterprise.
The Pakistan Super League 2025 promises thrilling cricket, new rivalries, and a step forward for Pakistan’s sporting landscape — both on and off the field.
