The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is the crown jewel of Pakistan’s domestic cricket scene, a vibrant T20 tournament organized by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
Since its inception in 2016, the league has grown into a major international cricket event, drawing players and fans from across the globe.
Initially comprising five franchises—Karachi Kings, Lahore Qalandars, Quetta Gladiators, Peshawar Zalmi, and Islamabad United—the league expanded in 2018 with the inclusion of Multan Sultans.
Over the years, every participating team has managed to lift the trophy at least once, reflecting the competitiveness and thrill that PSL consistently delivers.
2016 – Inaugural Glory for Islamabad United
The first-ever PSL match was played on February 4, 2016, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Quetta Gladiators, led by Sarfaraz Ahmed, defeated Islamabad United in the opener. However, Islamabad United, captained by Misbah ul Haq, bounced back and defeated Quetta in the final on February 23, claiming the inaugural title by six wickets. Dwayne Smith starred in the final with a match-winning 73 off 51 balls.
2017 – Peshawar Zalmi’s Statement in Lahore
The second season kicked off on February 9, 2017. The opening match saw Peshawar Zalmi fall to defending champions Islamabad United under the Duckworth–Lewis method. The final was historic, held at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium amidst tight security, marking a significant step toward reviving international cricket in Pakistan. Peshawar Zalmi, led by Darren Sammy, triumphed over Quetta Gladiators by 58 runs. Sammy was named Man of the Match, and Kamran Akmal won Player of the Series.
2018 – Multan Joins, Islamabad Reigns Again
In 2018, Multan Sultans entered the PSL fray, bringing the total number of teams to six. The tournament saw its final three matches hosted in Pakistan—two in Lahore and the final in Karachi. Islamabad United, again under Misbah ul Haq, clinched their second title by defeating defending champions Peshawar Zalmi. Luke Ronchi was named Player of the Series for his 435 runs.
2019 – Quetta Finally Seals the Deal
The fourth edition opened in the UAE, with the final phase played entirely in Karachi due to security concerns. Quetta Gladiators made their third final appearance and finally lifted the trophy by beating Peshawar Zalmi by eight wickets. Young pacer Mohammad Hasnain took three wickets in the final, while Shane Watson, who scored 430 runs across 12 matches, was the tournament's MVP.
2020 – Entire Season in Pakistan, COVID-19 Halts Play
For the first time, all PSL matches were scheduled in Pakistan, with games spread across Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Multan. However, the COVID-19 pandemic led to the suspension of the tournament before the playoffs. The remaining matches were completed later in November, where Karachi Kings defeated Lahore Qalandars by five wickets to claim their maiden title.
2021 – COVID Interrupts Again, Multan Takes the Title
Just 14 matches into the tournament, a COVID-19 outbreak forced the PSL to be postponed. Originally planned to resume in Karachi, the remainder was moved to Abu Dhabi. Multan Sultans emerged as champions, winning their first title by beating Peshawar Zalmi by 47 runs in the final held on June 24.
2022 – Lahore Qalandars Finally Break Through
The seventh season started in Karachi in January under strict COVID-19 protocols, with the latter stages taking place in Lahore. On February 27, Lahore Qalandars won their first PSL title by defeating Multan Sultans by 42 runs in the final at Gaddafi Stadium, triggering celebrations across the city.
2023 – Qalandars Make History with Back-to-Back Wins
The 2023 edition saw Lahore Qalandars aiming to defend their title, and they did so in style. The final, played on March 18 after a one-day rescheduling due to rain forecasts, again featured Multan Sultans. Lahore edged out their rivals by a single run, becoming the first team in PSL history to win back-to-back titles.
2024 – Islamabad United Clinch Title No. 3
The 2024 edition brought another thrilling season of PSL action, culminating in Islamabad United’s third championship win. In a high-octane final at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Islamabad United defeated Lahore Qalandars by 8 wickets. Shadab Khan led his side with tactical brilliance, and Azam Khan delivered a match-winning knock that sealed the deal for the former two-time champions. With this win, Islamabad United became the most successful team in PSL history with three titles.
The PSL continues to captivate fans globally, with its mix of fierce rivalries, rising stars, and thrilling matches. As the league evolves, it remains a powerful symbol of Pakistan's cricketing resurgence on the world stage.