The Pakistan Super League (PSL 2026) is shaping up to be one of the most exciting editions in the league’s history. With an expanded lineup of eight teams, a revised format, and a packed match schedule, cricket fans have plenty to look forward to. In this comprehensive guide, we break down the PSL 2026 schedule, team lineup, format changes, key fixtures, and everything you need to know about PSL 11.
What is PSL 2026?
The PSL 2026 also known as PSL 11 is the eleventh edition of Pakistan’s premier Twenty20 franchise cricket tournament, organised by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). The tournament runs from 26 March to 3 May 2026 and features eight teams playing competitive T20 cricket for domestic and international fans.
This season marks a significant step forward for the league as it expands from six to eight teams, making it more competitive and globally attractive than ever before.
PSL 2026 New Format & Highlights
Expanded League 8 Teams
For the first time in PSL history, the tournament will feature eight teams instead of the traditional six. This expansion increases fan engagement and brings more players into the elite T20 spotlight.
Tournament Structure
The tournament will be played across two main phases:
- Single League Stage: All eight teams play against each other once.
- Super Four Stage: Top teams move to a group stage to determine playoff positions.
The top four teams from this phase will move into the playoffs, leading to the Qualifier, Eliminators, and Final.
A total of 44 matches will be played during the season, making PSL 2026 one of the longest and most action-packed editions yet.
PSL 2026 Schedule: Complete Fixtures & Dates
The PSL 2026 schedule offers exciting clashes throughout the competition, with key matches scheduled in major Pakistani cities. Below is an overview of the confirmed fixture list:
League Stage Matches
| Match | Date | Teams | Venue | Time (PKT) |
| 1 | 11 Apr 2026 | Islamabad United vs Lahore Qalandars | Rawalpindi | 8:30 PM |
| 2 | 12 Apr 2026 | Peshawar Zalmi vs Quetta Gladiators | Rawalpindi | 3:30 PM |
| 3 | 12 Apr 2026 | Karachi Kings vs Multan Sultans | Karachi | 8:00 PM |
| 4 | 13 Apr 2026 | Quetta Gladiators vs Lahore Qalandars | Rawalpindi | 8:00 PM |
| 5 | 14 Apr 2026 | Islamabad United vs Peshawar Zalmi | Rawalpindi | 8:00 PM |
| 6 | 15 Apr 2026 | Karachi Kings vs Lahore Qalandars | Karachi | 8:00 PM |
| 7 | 16 Apr 2026 | Islamabad United vs Multan Sultans | Rawalpindi | 8:00 PM |
| 8 | 18 Apr 2026 | Karachi Kings vs Quetta Gladiators | Karachi | 8:00 PM |
| 9 | 19 Apr 2026 | Peshawar Zalmi vs Multan Sultans | Rawalpindi | 8:00 PM |
| 10 | 20 Apr 2026 | Karachi Kings vs Islamabad United | Karachi | 8:00 PM |
| 11 | 21 Apr 2026 | Karachi Kings vs Peshawar Zalmi | Karachi | 8:00 PM |
Playoffs & Finals
| Match | Date | Fixture | Venue | Time |
| Qualifier | 10 May 2026 | 1st vs 2nd | Lahore | 8:00 PM |
| Eliminator 1 | 11 May 2026 | 3rd vs 4th | Lahore | 8:00 PM |
| Eliminator 2 | 12 May 2026 | Loser QF vs Winner E1 | Lahore | 8:00 PM |
| PSL 2026 Final | 14 May 2026 | Final Match | Lahore | 8:00 PM |
PSL 2026 Teams & Captains
Here’s a closer look at the 8 PSL 2026 teams, their expected captains, and home grounds:
| Team Name | Captain (Expected) | Home Ground |
| Islamabad United | Shadab Khan | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium |
| Lahore Qalandars | Shaheen Shah Afridi | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
| Karachi Kings | Imad Wasim | National Stadium, Karachi |
| Peshawar Zalmi | Babar Azam | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium |
| Multan Sultans | Mohammad Rizwan | Multan Cricket Stadium |
| Quetta Gladiators | Rilee Rossouw | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
| New Franchise 1 | TBA | Faisalabad Stadium |
| New Franchise 2 | TBA | Sialkot Stadium |
Notable Team Additions
The addition of two new franchises expands the PSL’s reach and competitive balance in the league. Although official names and captains for these new teams are yet to be confirmed, the expansion signals the PCB’s commitment to growing the PSL brand and involving more regions in Pakistan cricket.
Venues Hosting PSL 2026 Matches
PSL 2026 will be hosted in multiple iconic cricket stadiums across Pakistan, allowing fans from different cities to experience the thrill live. Confirmed venues include:
- Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
- National Stadium, Karachi
- Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
- Multan Cricket Stadium
- Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad (hosting PSL matches for the first time)
These venues represent some of the country’s most historic cricketing arenas and will draw large crowds throughout the competition.
Key Dates & Events in PSL 2026
Aside from the match schedule, PSL 2026 includes other important milestones:
Franchise Auction
The auction for the new franchises took place early in January 2026, giving all eight teams a chance to build competitive squads for the season.
PSL 2026 Kickoff
The season officially starts on 26 March 2026 a date confirmed by the PCB setting the stage for intense T20 action.
Final Match
The climax of the tournament will be on 14 May 2026, with the top two teams battling for the championship trophy.
How to Watch PSL 2026
Fans can watch live PSL 2026 matches through official broadcast partners and streaming platforms. Local and international broadcasters will usually telecast matches live, while digital streaming services provide online viewing options.
What Makes PSL 2026 Special?
1. Larger League Format
With eight teams and 44 matches, PSL 2026 is set to be the most competitive season yet.
2. Expanded Fan Engagement
New cities and venues mean more fans will participate in live match experiences.
3. Overlap with Other Leagues
The schedule will partially overlap with other major T20 leagues, adding international interest and broadcasting competition.
FAQs: PSL 2026 Schedule & Teams
When does PSL 2026 start and end?
PSL 2026 is scheduled from 26 March to 3 May 2026.
How many teams are playing in PSL 2026?
The tournament features eight teams, an expansion from six.
How many matches will be played in PSL 2026?
A total of 44 matches will be played during the season.
Which cities are hosting PSL 2026 matches?
Matches will be hosted in Lahore, Karachi, Rawalpindi, Multan, and Faisalabad.
Who are the new teams in PSL 2026?
Two new franchises will join the league, with teams expected to be based in Faisalabad and Sialkot (names TBA).
