LAHORE: On the eve of the 11th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), the captains of all eight participating teams convened at Gaddafi Stadium on Wednesday for a joint press conference, marking a defining moment ahead of a historically expanded tournament.
With the league entering an unprecedented phase of growth featuring new franchises and reconfigured logistics, the skippers presented a united front, each articulating a clear vision for a season poised to redefine the competition’s trajectory.
All eight skippers under one roof ©️🎙️
The #HBLPSL11 captains share their thoughts in the pre-tournament press conference 🗣️#NewEra pic.twitter.com/qFYerME4ai
— PakistanSuperLeague (@thePSLt20) March 25, 2026
From Karachi Kings’ David Warner emphasising fitness and adaptation to Hyderabad Kingsmen’s Marnus Labuschagne championing player empowerment, and from Multan Sultans’ Ashton Turner celebrating the PSL’s global stature to Rawalpindiz’ Mohammad Rizwan promising thrilling cricket, the captains set the stage for a blockbuster tournament kicking off on March 26.
David Warner: Fitness, adaptation, and building on momentum
Karachi Kings captain David Warner expressed confidence in his squad’s potential ahead of the new season, emphasising the need to build on last season’s performances while seamlessly integrating new arrivals.
“Yeah, look, it’s obviously good to have those guys as part of our group. For us, it’s about trying to emulate a little of what we did last year and see how we can improve from how we started last year,” Warner said.
The left-handed batter also addressed the challenges posed by reduced venues this season, stressing the need for quick adaptation and improved consistency compared to the previous campaign.
“We had five home games, and now we’re down to two venues here. There’s no excuse—we should get used to the venues and adapt as quickly as we can. Hopefully, we can progress better than we did last year,” he said.
He also praised the team’s efforts at the player auction, expressing confidence in the squad’s ability to compete strongly against other sides in the tournament.
“We’ve got a good group of players, and I think we did well at the auction too, giving us the chance to compete against these guys and beat them all,” he added.
Reflecting on his fitness and longevity, the 39-year-old underlined his commitment to maintaining peak physical condition despite being in the later stages of his career.
“Yeah, look, at 39 years of age, I’m extremely fit. Probably fitter than most 39-year-olds around the world who are still playing this game. It’s just about a healthy diet, running off the field, training hard, and maintaining longevity. But to answer your question, hopefully, I can score some runs and put our team in a good position,” he concluded.
The Warner-led Kings will play their campaign-opening match against Quetta Gladiators at Gaddafi Stadium on Friday.
𝑨𝒍𝒍 𝒆𝒚𝒆𝒔 𝒐𝒏 𝑰𝒏𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒚 🏆
The eight captains come together all in readiness to carve an exciting chapter in the history of HBL Pakistan Super League 🔥
📍Jinnah Library, Lahore#HBLPSL11 | #NewEra pic.twitter.com/nJAQB2eEr8
— PakistanSuperLeague (@thePSLt20) March 25, 2026
Marnus Labuschagne: Empowering individuals in a new chapter
Marnus Labuschagne, the Australian batter set to captain the newly formed Hyderabad Kingsmen, outlined his philosophy of fostering individual confidence over tactical complexity.
Speaking at the captains’ conference, the 31-year-old reflected on his leadership style, emphasising that his approach with the debut franchise will mirror the environment he cultivates for his state side in Australia.
“We haven’t spoken too much in depth. For us, it’s all about the individuals—the players themselves being themselves. I’m going to try and lead them in the same manner that I have for my state side back at home,” Labuschagne said.
He stressed the importance of empowering players to trust their abilities, noting that freedom and mutual belief are fundamental to collective success.
“I think it’s about empowering the players to trust their skills and go out there to showcase how good they are,” he added.
Despite his limited experience in T20 international cricket, Labuschagne dismissed the notion that the pressures of a high-profile franchise tournament differ from those of other competitions, maintaining that expectations remain constant across all levels of the game.
“No, I think any team you play for—whether it’s in the PSL, the BBL, or for Australia—there’s always pressure. I don’t think that changes,” he said.
Labuschagne concluded by expressing his enthusiasm for the opportunities presented by the new franchise, describing the season as a significant platform for both personal development and team growth.
“I think it’s an exciting new chapter for the Kingsmen to join a new franchise and be part of the PSL this season. It’s a great opportunity to showcase your skill sets on the biggest stage,” he stated.
Peak energy as boys hit the training grounds! 🏏🏃♂️#HBLPSL11 | #NewEra pic.twitter.com/KG5xrEoQri
— PakistanSuperLeague (@thePSLt20) March 25, 2026
Ashton Turner: PSL among world’s premier franchise competitions
Australian middle-order batter Ashton Turner hailed the Pakistan Super League as one of the premier franchise competitions in world cricket, while expressing his excitement at helping write a new chapter for Multan under fresh ownership.
Speaking at the captains’ conference, Turner reflected warmly on his experiences playing in Pakistan, praising the exceptional hospitality extended to touring sides.
“Firstly, particularly Australians who get the opportunity to come to Pakistan—we are so fortunate. We get looked after so well,” Turner said.
The right-hander also emphasised the PSL’s growing global stature and the sense of opportunity presented by the revamped Multan franchise.
“The PSL is becoming one of the best competitions for franchise cricketers in the world. We have the opportunity in Multan to write the first page of our history. While there is some continuity from the previous Multan team, it very much feels like a new chapter with new ownership,” he said.
Turner noted the palpable enthusiasm surrounding the team’s restructured setup, which includes a fresh squad and coaching staff.
“We have a new squad and a newly assembled coaching staff. It’s a really exciting time. That’s the nature of modern franchise cricket,” he added.
He concluded by expressing his anticipation for the high calibre of competition in Pakistan.
“We’re excited. As you mentioned, there are so many talented players here in Pakistan, and being part of this competition is truly exciting,” he said.
Turner’s team will begin their campaign against Islamabad United at Gaddafi Stadium.
Mohammad Rizwan: A promise of exciting cricket
Rawalpindiz captain Mohammad Rizwan also expressed enthusiasm about the season, highlighting the competitive spirit that defines the PSL.
“It’s going to be a great tournament. Everyone will give their best and aim to deliver exciting cricket,” Rizwan said, reflecting the collective optimism shared by all eight skippers.
Revised Schedule for HBL PSL 11 🏏
44 matches will be taking place in a space of 39 days with Lahore and Karachi each hosting 22 matches.
Read More: https://t.co/hgnFSKUQPD#HBLPSL11 | #NewEra pic.twitter.com/1Vz4WiHOMn
— PakistanSuperLeague (@thePSLt20) March 22, 2026
Tournament overview: A landmark expansion
The forthcoming PSL season represents a significant milestone, featuring eight teams for the first time in the tournament’s history. The newly added Hyderabad Kingsmen and Rawalpindiz franchises join the competition across 44 matches scheduled over 39 days, running from March 26 to May 3.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has revised its logistical plans, confining matches to Karachi and Lahore behind closed doors—a departure from the initial schedule that included venues such as Multan, Peshawar, Rawalpindi, and Faisalabad. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed the decision followed consultations with franchise owners and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Lahore will host Eliminators 1 and 2, as well as the final, while Karachi is set to stage the Qualifier. The opening fixture between the Hyderabad Kingsmen and Lahore Qalandars remains unchanged, with organisers promising enhanced broadcast features to compensate for the absence of spectators.
Looking ahead: A season of promise
The press conference also offered a glimpse of camaraderie and sportsmanship among the captains, reflecting PSL’s role in bringing together international stars and local talent on one platform.
PSL 2026 is set to kick off tomorrow with the season opener between defending champions Lahore Qalandars and Hyderabad Kingsmen at Gaddafi Stadium. Fans are eagerly awaiting the clash, which promises fireworks, competitive cricket, and a glimpse of which teams might dominate this year’s tournament.
With the captains setting the tone and players ready to shine, PSL 11 promises a blend of thrilling cricket, emerging talents, and unforgettable moments for cricket fans across Pakistan and beyond.
