Pakistan Super League Explained
A complete guide to the PSL — Pakistan's premier T20 franchise competition — covering its six teams, format, history, and global significance.
What Is the Pakistan Super League?
The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is Pakistan's premier franchise T20 competition, run by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Launched in 2016, it features six city-based franchises and has grown to become one of the most-watched T20 leagues in the world — with a viewership rivalling the BBL and CPL and a rapidly increasing international player base.
The Six Teams
- Karachi Kings (National Stadium, Karachi)
- Lahore Qalandars (Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore)
- Islamabad United (Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium)
- Peshawar Zalmi (Arbab Niaz Stadium, Peshawar)
- Multan Sultans (Multan Cricket Stadium)
- Quetta Gladiators (Bugti Stadium, Quetta)
Format
Teams play a double round-robin group stage before a playoff series (Qualifier 1, Eliminator, Qualifier 2, and the Final). The PSL typically runs from February to March, fitting between international tours and the IPL auction window.
History
The first PSL was played entirely in the UAE due to security concerns in Pakistan. Matches returned to Lahore for a final in 2017, and from 2018 the competition progressively moved entirely to Pakistani venues — a landmark shift that helped restore international cricket to Pakistan after more than a decade's absence. By 2020, the full PSL was held in Pakistan, and international teams began touring again.
Global Player Base
The PSL attracts a strong roster of overseas T20 specialists. England, West Indies, New Zealand, South Africa, and Australia all send regular performers. The salary tier system (Platinum, Diamond, Gold, Silver, Emerging) caps spending while ensuring top players can be recruited. The PSL has become a key destination for former international players extending their T20 careers.
Frequently asked questions
When does the PSL take place?
The PSL typically runs in February and March, completing before the IPL begins. This timing allows top overseas players to participate in both competitions.
Is the PSL broadcast internationally?
Yes — PTV Sports and Geo Super broadcast the PSL in Pakistan, with international rights held by various broadcasters including Sky Sports (UK) and Willow (USA). PTV Sports streams matches globally.
How does the PSL draft work?
Teams build their squads through an annual player draft, where franchises pick players in a rotating order across salary categories. Local players are also subject to the draft, with an additional quota for young Emerging Pakistan players.