Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 is shaping up to be one of the biggest seasons yet. After a successful 2025 edition, PSL is expected to return with bigger names, exciting draft picks, and intense rivalries. Known for fast-paced cricket, emerging local talents, and international stars, PSL 2026 will continue to grow as one of the top T20 leagues in the world.
Key Draft Picks & Player Retentions (Expected Highlights)
Team
Likely Big Pick/Retention
Karachi Kings
Imad Wasim, James Vince
Lahore Qalandars
Shaheen Afridi, Rashid Khan
Peshawar Zalmi
Babar Azam, Wahab Riaz (mentor role)
Islamabad United
Shadab Khan, Alex Hales
Multan Sultans
Mohammad Rizwan, David Miller
Quetta Gladiators
Naseem Shah, Jason Roy
Emerging Pakistani Talents to Watch
Player
Team
Role
Saim Ayub
Peshawar Zalmi
Young aggressive opener
Zaman Khan
Lahore Qalandars
Fast bowler, death over specialist
Aamer Jamal
Islamabad United
Fast bowling all-rounder
Irfan Khan Niazi
Karachi Kings
Explosive batsman
Usman Khan
Multan Sultans
Top-order batsman
Possible Captains for PSL 2026 Teams
Team
Captain (Expected)
Karachi Kings
Imad Wasim
Lahore Qalandars
Shaheen Afridi
Peshawar Zalmi
Babar Azam
Islamabad United
Shadab Khan
Multan Sultans
Mohammad Rizwan
Quetta Gladiators
Sarfaraz Ahmed (or Naseem Shah as emerging leader)
Stadiums and Venues for PSL 2026
Stadium
City
Capacity
National Stadium
Karachi
34,000
Gaddafi Stadium
Lahore
27,000
Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
Rawalpindi
15,000
Multan Cricket Stadium
Multan
35,000
Bugti Stadium
Quetta (Possible matches)
10,000
Tournament Format (Expected)
Double round-robin league (each team plays twice).
Top 4 teams qualify for playoffs.
Qualifier, Eliminator, Final format.
Final likely in Lahore or Karachi.
Tournament dates: February – March 2026 (expected).
Fan Expectations for PSL 2026
Aspect
Why Important
Bigger crowds
Post-World Cup cricket hype in Pakistan.
Emerging players
PSL continues to produce national stars.
International stars
Attracting big T20 names adds glamour.
Top-notch competition
PSL known for strong bowling attacks.
Expected Favorites for PSL 2026 Title
Team
Why They’re Favorites
Lahore Qalandars
Defending champions, top bowling unit.
Multan Sultans
Consistent top performers.
Islamabad United
Explosive batting line-up.
Where to Watch PSL 2026
Region
Broadcaster/Streaming Platform
Pakistan
PTV Sports, A Sports, Daraz App
India
Sony Sports Network, SonyLIV
UK & Europe
Sky Sports (expected)
USA & Canada
Willow TV
Middle East
Etisalat (UAE), STARZPLAY
Conclusion
PSL 2026 is set to deliver another season of world-class T20 cricket with local stars, exciting young talents, and global legends. As one of the best T20 leagues for bowling talent, PSL will continue to provide thrilling matches and unforgettable moments. With Babar, Shaheen, Rizwan, and rising names, fans can expect action-packed cricket in packed stadiums across Pakistan.
