PSL X Begins: United vs Qalandars Set the Stage for a Thrilling Season Opener

The biggest cricket carnival in Pakistan, PSL X, officially begins today Friday, April 11, 2025. The opening match between defending champions Islamabad United and fierce rivals Lahore Qalandars will be held under the dazzling floodlights of Pindi Cricket Stadium. With passion, pride, and prize money on the line, fans can expect fireworks from the very first ball.

What Makes PSL X Special?

This is the 10th edition of the Pakistan Super League, and it promises to be the most competitive season yet. The league has grown into a global brand with millions of fans, both in Pakistan and overseas.

This season features:

34 matches
Six competitive teams
Four top-class venues (Rawalpindi, Lahore, Karachi, and Multan)
$500,000 prize for the champions
$200,000 for the runners-up

United vs Qalandars – Opening Clash with High Expectations

The much-anticipated curtain-raiser will see two of the strongest sides in PSL history face off.

Islamabad United

Led by Shadab Khan, United are stepping in as defending champions and aiming to raise the bar even higher this year. Shadab has promised fans a "more balanced and explosive" team this time around.

New international recruit Ben Dwarshuis (Australia), with his raw pace, is expected to be a game-changer. Alongside him, Darcy Short adds firepower to the batting lineup, making United a team to watch.

“We’ve filled in the gaps from last season. Expect a smarter, more aggressive Islamabad United this year,” said Shadab Khan confidently.

Lahore Qalandars

Qalandars, on the other hand, are hungry for glory. With Shaheen Shah Afridi as captain, they are eyeing their moment at the top.

Daryl Mitchell brings reliability to the middle order, and their squad looks ready to challenge any team on its day.

“This season, our focus remains on grooming talent and chasing the trophy that has eluded us,” said Shaheen Shah Afridi.

Opening Ceremony & Schedule Highlights

Before the toss, fans will be treated to a grand opening ceremony featuring music, fireworks, and star performances—perfect to kick off this landmark season.

Key Dates to Remember:

Start Date: April 11, 2025
End Date: May 18, 2025
Double-Headers: April 12, May 1 & May 10
Afternoon Matches: Start at 4 PM PST
Final: May 18 at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore

Venue-wise Match Split:

Lahore (Gaddafi Stadium): 13 matches, including the final
Rawalpindi (Pindi Stadium): 11 matches
Karachi: 5 matches
Multan: 5 matches

Captains Speak: Confidence All Around

A press conference held on Thursday brought together all team captains (except Karachi Kings' David Warner, who was represented by Hasan Ali). Here’s what they had to say:

Babar Azam (Peshawar Zalmi)

"We’ve learned from our past. This time, our lineup is solid in both batting and bowling."

Hasan Ali (Karachi Kings, representing Warner)

"We’ve rebuilt our team around powerful hitters. We plan to attack from ball one."

Mohammad Rizwan (Multan Sultans)

"PSL is now a festival every Pakistani looks forward to. We want to win it for our fans."

Saud Shakeel (Quetta Gladiators)

"We've had tough seasons, but now it’s time for a comeback. We’re ready."

Players to Watch in PSL X

Here are some of the top names to keep your eyes on during the PSL 2025 season:

Shadab Khan (Islamabad United) – Captain, all-rounder, and consistent performer
Ben Dwarshuis (Islamabad United) is – Fast bowling weapon
Darcy Short (Islamabad United) – Explosive top-order bat
Shaheen Afridi (Lahore Qalandars) is lethal with the new ball
Daryl Mitchell (Lahore Qalandars) – Middle-order anchor
Babar Azam (Peshawar Zalmi) – Classy and calm
David Warner (Karachi Kings) – International star power
Mohammad Rizwan (Multan Sultans) – The finisher
Saud Shakeel (Quetta Gladiators) – The comeback captain

What’s at Stake?

The winning team will take home a massive $500,00, while the runners-up will get $200,000. But beyond money, it’s about pride, fan love, and making history in the 10th edition of the PSL.

Home Advantage: Can It Help?

Islamabad United will play five of their matches at the Rawalpindi Stadium, potentially giving them an edge early in the tournament. Shadab believes playing in front of home fans will inspire the team to push harder.

“We’re thrilled to play at home. The energy in Pindi is unmatched,” he added.

Final Thoughts on PSL X

As PSL X kicks off tonight, expect nothing less than high-octane cricket, emotional moments, unforgettable rivalries, and the rise of new stars. The tournament not only celebrates Pakistan's cricketing talent but also unites fans from every corner of the country.

Whether you're backing United, cheering for Qalandars, or loyal to your hometown heroes, PSL is where it all comes alive.