PSL 11 2026: Dates, Expansion, Auction, Venues & Key Updates

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed the official window for the 2026 HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL 11). The tournament will run from 26 March to 3 May 2026, marking the league’s expansion from six to eight teams.

Opening Match and Venues

While the full match schedule has not yet been officially released, reports suggest the tournament will begin on Thursday, 26 March 2026. Matches will be hosted across five cities: Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi, Multan, and Faisalabad.

Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad will feature PSL matches for the first time, adding a historic dimension to the league. Traditionally, the season opener includes the defending champions. Following their 2025 triumph, the Lahore Qalandars are expected to feature in the inaugural match, although official confirmation is pending.

League Expansion and New Format

The 2026 edition introduces two new franchises: Sialkot Stallionz and Hyderabad Houston Kingsmen. This expansion brings the total number of teams to eight, creating a more competitive league. The tournament will depart from the traditional double round-robin format. Each team will face every other team once in the league stage, followed by a Super Four stage and then the playoffs. Analysts expect this streamlined structure to heighten intensity and unpredictability throughout the season.

First-Ever Player Auction and Record Signing

For the first time, PSL 11 conducted a player auction on 11 February 2026, replacing the draft system used in previous seasons. The auction saw marquee domestic and international players secure new contracts with franchises. Fast bowler Naseem Shah became the most expensive player in PSL history, signed by Rawalpindi for PKR 86.5 million, setting a record that reflects both his talent and the league’s growing financial stature.

Venues Overview

The main venues for PSL 11 include:

Due to the current condition of Jinnah Stadium, Sialkot, the Sialkot Stallionz are expected to temporarily base themselves in Faisalabad. With expanded teams, new venues, and an auction-driven squad structure, PSL 11 promises a highly competitive and historic season, cementing its status as one of the premier T20 leagues in the world.