Cricket fever is back in Pakistan! The Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026, also known as PSL 11, is finally here. This season feels different, bigger, and more intense than ever before. For the first time in history, we aren't just looking at the usual six teams. The league has expanded, the stars have arrived, and the stadiums in Lahore and Karachi are ready to roar.
In this guide, we will break down the full PSL 2026 schedule, show you how to watch live streaming, and list the TV channels broadcasting the games globally. Whether you are a die-hard Lahore Qalandars fan or rooting for the new franchises, this is your ultimate handbook for the season.
The New Era: 8 Teams and a New Format
The biggest headline for PSL 2026 is the expansion. For years, fans asked for more teams, and the PCB has delivered. We now have eight franchises competing for the trophy. Joining the original six are the Hyderabad Kingsmen and the rebranded Rawalpindiz.
Because there are more teams, the format has changed. The teams are divided into two groups of four. You’ll see more matches, more rivalries, and a much tighter race to the playoffs. Each team plays 10 group-stage matches, leading into the high-stakes qualifiers and the grand final on May 3, 2026.
PSL 2026 Schedule & Match Dates
The tournament officially kicks off on March 26, 2026. This year, due to logistical reasons and to keep the energy concentrated, the matches are being held across two main hubs: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore and National Bank Stadium, Karachi.
| Date | Match Details | Venue | Time (PKT) |
|---|---|---|---|
| April 1 | Karachi Kings vs Peshawar Zalmi | Karachi | 7:00 PM |
| April 2 | Hyderabad Kingsmen vs Multan Sultans | Karachi | 7:00 PM |
| April 5 | Rawalpindiz vs Islamabad United | Karachi | 7:00 PM |
| April 8 | Quetta Gladiators vs Lahore Qalandars | Karachi | 7:00 PM |
| April 12 | Peshawar Zalmi vs Hyderabad Kingsmen | Karachi | 7:00 PM |
| April 15 | Islamabad United vs Karachi Kings | Karachi | 7:00 PM |
| April 18 | Double Header (TBD) | Karachi | 2:30 PM / 7:00 PM |
| April 22 | Multan Sultans vs Quetta Gladiators | Karachi | 7:00 PM |
| April 25 | Rawalpindiz vs Lahore Qalandars | Lahore | 7:00 PM |
| April 29 | Qualifier 1 (1st vs 2nd) | Lahore | 7:30 PM |
| April 30 | Eliminator 1 (3rd vs 4th) | Lahore | 7:30 PM |
| May 1 | Eliminator 2 (L-Q1 vs W-E1) | Lahore | 7:30 PM |
| May 3 | PSL 2026 GRAND FINAL | Lahore | 8:00 PM |
The league stage will continue throughout April, with the action shifting to Karachi for the second half of the tournament. The Playoffs are scheduled to begin on April 29, culminating in the Grand Final in Lahore on May 3.
How to Watch PSL 2026 Live Streaming
In today's world, most fans prefer watching cricket on their smartphones or laptops. Luckily, PSL 2026 has some of the best streaming partners to ensure a buffer-free experience.
Live Streaming in Pakistan
- Tapmad TV: The go-to app for ad-free HD streaming. You will need a premium subscription, but it’s worth it for the quality.
- Tamasha Web & App: Usually offers free or very affordable streaming for mobile users on the Jazz network.
- Daraz App: Historically, Daraz has streamed PSL matches for free within their app. Check their "Live" section during match hours.
Global Live Streaming
- India: Fans in India can catch the action on FanCode. You can buy a match pass or a full tournament pass for a very small fee.
- UK/Europe: The Sky Go app and Flow Sports are the primary digital outlets.
- North America: Willow TV remains the king of cricket streaming in the USA and Canada.
- Australia: Fox Cricket and the Kayo Sports app will carry all the live games.
TV Channels List for PSL 2026
If you prefer the big screen and the comfort of your couch, here is the list of official broadcasters bringing PSL 11 into your living room.
- Pakistan: A Sports HD, PTV Sports, and Ten Sports.
- United Kingdom: Sky Sports Cricket.
- USA & Canada: Willow TV.
- Caribbean: Flow Sports.
- Middle East/UAE: CricLife (available on Etisalat and STARZPLAY).
- Sub-Saharan Africa: SuperSport.
- New Zealand: Sky Sport NZ.
Why This Season is Unique: The IPL Clash
For the first time, the PSL is significantly overlapping with the IPL 2026. Usually, PSL ends before IPL begins, but this year, both leagues are running simultaneously. This has created a "Battle of the Leagues."
While some players have left for the IPL, many superstars like Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, and David Warner have chosen to stay or join the PSL. This proves that the Pakistan Super League is now a top-tier destination for international cricketers who value the high-quality bowling and the passionate atmosphere of Pakistan.
Key Players to Watch
Every year, the PSL produces new stars and solidifies the legends. This year, keep your eyes on these players:
- Naseem Shah (Rawalpindiz): The most expensive player in the auction. All eyes are on him to see if he can lead his new team to glory.
- Babar Azam (Peshawar Zalmi): The King of Pakistan cricket. His batting consistency is what Zalmi relies on every single game.
- Shaheen Afridi (Lahore Qalandars): Not just a bowler, but a leader who has already brought multiple trophies to Lahore.
- Marnus Labuschagne: A surprise addition to the league, fans are excited to see how his classical technique works on the flat tracks of Karachi.
Venue Spotlight: Lahore vs. Karachi
With only two venues this year, the pitches will be under a lot of pressure. Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore is known for its electric atmosphere and slightly better bounce for the pacers. On the other hand, National Bank Stadium, Karachi usually offers high-scoring games where the ball comes onto the bat nicely under lights.
Expect a lot of "Double Headers" (two matches in one day) on Saturdays and Sundays. The afternoon games might favor spinners as the sun dries out the surface, while the evening games will be a treat for the power-hitters.
Tips for Fans Buying Tickets
If you are in Pakistan and planning to go to the stadium, remember that tickets are primarily sold online via pcb.bookme.pk. Due to the high demand and the fuel crisis measures, many matches might have limited seating or be played behind closed doors. Always check the official PCB social media handles 24 hours before the match for the latest stadium entry guidelines.
Full Squads for All 8 Teams
Here are the official lineups for the 11th edition. Each team has a mix of local Pakistani talent and global T20 superstars.
Lahore Qalandars
Captain: Shaheen Afridi
Players: Rashid Khan, Haris Rauf, Fakhar Zaman, Abdullah Shafique, Sikandar Raza, David Wiese, Mirza Baig, Zaman Khan.
Karachi Kings
Captain: Shan Masood
Players: Kieron Pollard, Shoaib Malik, Hasan Ali, Tim Seifert, Mohammad Nawaz, James Vince, Tabraiz Shamsi, Mir Hamza.
Islamabad United
Captain: Shadab Khan
Players: Alex Hales, Azam Khan, Imad Wasim, Jordan Cox, Colin Munro, Faheem Ashraf, Rumman Raees, Hunain Shah.
Peshawar Zalmi
Captain: Babar Azam
Players: Saim Ayub, Rovman Powell, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Naveen-ul-Haq, Mohammad Haris, Luke Wood, Aamir Jamal.
Quetta Gladiators
Captain: Rilee Rossouw
Players: Jason Roy, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Hasnain, Mohammad Amir, Sherfane Rutherford, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Abrar Ahmed.
Multan Sultans
Captain: Mohammad Rizwan
Players: Iftikhar Ahmed, Usama Mir, Dawid Malan, David Willey, Abbas Afridi, Reeza Hendricks, Tayyab Tahir.
Hyderabad Kingsmen
Captain: Steve Smith
Players: Glenn Maxwell, Haider Ali, Shahnawaz Dahani, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Sharjeel Khan, Ben Cutting, Adil Rashid.
Rawalpindiz
Captain: Marnus Labuschagne
Players: Naseem Shah, David Warner, Haris Sohail, Zaman Khan, Usama Mir (Traded), Mohammad Ali, Johnson Charles.
Key Tournament Info
- Venue Strategy: Due to heavy scheduling, pitches in Karachi are expected to favor spinners by mid-April.
- Playoffs: The top 4 teams in the points table will qualify for the Lahore leg of the tournament.
- Player Availability: Note that some overseas stars may leave in late April for international duties; teams have picked "Replacement Draft" players to cover them.
Final Thoughts
PSL 2026 is more than just a cricket tournament; it’s a festival for the people of Pakistan. Despite the challenges of overlapping with the IPL and logistical hurdles, the quality of cricket is expected to be world-class. From the searing pace of Haris Rauf to the elegant drives of Babar Azam, the next few weeks are going to be a rollercoaster ride.