PSL 11 to go head-to-head with IPL again as PCB finalizes new window

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is once again gearing up to go head-to-head with the Indian Premier League (IPL). The PCB has finalized the dates for PSL 11, and the tournament will be held in April and May with 8 teams. 

Once again, the Pakistani league is set to compete with the IPL. More venues will be added along with an increase in the number of matches. In a recent meeting, the franchises had demanded an early announcement regarding the schedule. Initially, the window for PSL was set for December 2025 and January 2026, but due to contracts with new franchises and other key matters, an earlier window was not feasible.

PCB CEO Salman Naseer has informed the existing teams that the schedule window is confirmed, and an official announcement will be made later in July. Franchises also expressed concern over the quality of some pitches used during the 10th edition. According to them, some one-sided matches at the beginning of the tournament were not good for the competition. They demanded the preparation of balanced, T20-friendly tracks at all venues, especially in Karachi.

Traditionally, PSL is held in February and March, but this year, it was shifted to April and May due to the ICC Champions Trophy being hosted in Pakistan. Next year, the ICC T20 World Cup is scheduled for February and March. In November this year, Pakistan is set to host Sri Lanka for a home series comprising 3 ODIs and 3 T20Is. The December–January window had been kept open for PSL, but in February, Australia will tour Pakistan for a 3-match T20I series. After the World Cup in March, Australia will return for a 3-match ODI series.

In late March and April, the Pakistan team is scheduled to tour Bangladesh for 2 Tests, 3 ODIs, and 3 T20Is. Zimbabwe is also set to tour Pakistan in April and May for 3 ODIs and 3 T20Is, so the PCB will need to reschedule that home series to accommodate PSL.

On the other hand, the advertisement for the appointment of an audit firm for franchise valuation has been finalized, and the bid committee has approved it. It is expected to be released next week. After appointing the selected firm within 15 days, it will be given 1 to 2 months to complete its work. Regarding the new franchises, PCB officials have re-established contact with some interested parties. After the valuation process, progress on new teams is expected to accelerate. Some foreign individuals have also expressed interest in acquiring a PSL franchise.