The ninth season of the Pakistan Super League got underway with a dazzling opening ceremony at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium over the weekend.
Cricket fans from Lahore and around the globe were treated to stunning performances by various artists. Highlights included Ali Zafar and Aima Baig’s rendition of the PSL 9 anthem, along with captivating acts by renowned musicians Arif Lohar and the band ‘Noori’. The event commenced with a heartfelt rendition of the national anthem by Natasha Baig and Leo Twins, accompanied by a mesmerizing laser show.
The gates opened for spectators at 3:30 pm, with the ceremony officially kicking off at 6:30 pm.
Lighting up the night with electrifying fireworks at the #HBLPSL9 opening ceremony! 🎇#KhulKeKhel pic.twitter.com/Gz8u1c7JX6
— PakistanSuperLeague (@thePSLt20) February 17, 2024
It’s important to note that PSL 9 will be hosted across four cities: Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi. The grand finale is scheduled to take place at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi on March 18.
Similar to the previous edition, HBL PSL 9 will be held in two legs. The first leg will see Multan Cricket Stadium and Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium hosting 14 matches from February 17 to 27. The action will then shift to Rawalpindi’s Pindi Cricket Stadium and Karachi’s National Bank Stadium, where 16 matches will be held from February 28 to March 12. Finally, the playoffs will be held entirely in Karachi.
A highly anticipated match between Lahore Qalandars and Karachi Kings is set for February 24 and March 9. The February 24 clash will be held at Gaddafi Stadium, while the March 9 match will take place at the National Bank Stadium.
Teams like Karachi Kings, Lahore Qalandars, Multan Sultans, and Islamabad United will play five matches at their respective home grounds.
Peshawar Zalmi will play four matches at Pindi Cricket Stadium. Quetta Gladiators will play three matches each in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi, with an additional match at Multan Cricket Stadium against Multan Sultans on February 25.