LAHORE, Pakistan: In a landmark signing for Pakistan cricket, the Pakistan Super League’s (PSL) newest franchise, Sialkot Stallionz, has secured former Australian captain Steve Smith for the upcoming 11th season.
The historic edition is scheduled to run from March 26 to May 3.
The franchise made the major announcement official through its social media platforms on Tuesday, declaring it one of the most significant direct signings in the league’s history.
“One of the Biggest Signings in PSL History: A game-changer, powerhouse player, we welcome Steve Smith on board as a Stallion,” the team’s post stated.
This signing marks the prolific right-handed batter’s debut in the PSL, adding a new chapter to his storied franchise career.
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Smith’s formidable T20 pedigree
Steve Smith, 36, brings a wealth of experience from the global T20 circuit. He has featured prominently in top leagues worldwide, including the Big Bash League (BBL), The Hundred, Indian Premier League (IPL), and the Caribbean Premier League (CPL).
His international and domestic record speaks volumes:
- 67 T20Is for Australia: 1,094 runs at a strike rate of 125.45.
- 272 Franchise T20 Matches: 6,242 runs at a strike rate of 131.38, including five centuries and 30 half-centuries.
Smith arrives in scintillating form, having recently powered the Sydney Sixers to the BBL 15 final.
In just six matches, he smashed 299 runs at a blistering strike rate of 167.97, scoring a century and two fifties.
Building an Australian corner
The signing of Smith follows the Stallionz’ earlier strategic move to appoint former Australian Test captain and wicketkeeper-batter Tim Paine as their head coach on January 29.
Paine’s leadership experience and tactical knowledge are expected to be key assets for the nascent franchise.
New era of expansion
Sialkot Stallionz is one of two new franchises set to debut in PSL 11, expanding the league to eight teams for the first time.
The team was acquired by OZ Developers, led by Hamza Majeed, for a winning bid of Rs 1.85 billion ($6.25 million) at a high-profile auction in Karachi on January 8.
This represents the second major expansion in PSL history, reminiscent of the addition of Multan Sultans in the third season.
Next stop: The players’ draft
With this headline-grabbing signing setting the tone, the focus now shifts to the highly anticipated PSL 11 players’ draft, scheduled for February 11.
Franchises will finalise their squads, setting the stage for what promises to be the largest and most competitive season of the Pakistan Super League.
About the Pakistan Super League (PSL)
The Pakistan Super League is Pakistan’s premier professional Twenty20 cricket league, featuring franchise teams from major cities. The 11th edition will be played from March 26 to May 3, 2026.
About Sialkot Stallionz:
Sialkot Stallionz is the newest franchise of the Pakistan Super League, representing the historic city of Sialkot.
The team is owned by OZ Developers and is coached by former Australian captain Tim Paine.
