The Pakistan Super League (PSL) celebrated its 10th edition in 2025 with unprecedented success, cementing its status as a global cricketing powerhouse. PSL Chief Executive Officer Salman Naseer led workshops with stakeholders, including franchise representatives, title sponsor HBL, media rights partners, and commercial partners, at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore. The sessions showcased the league’s remarkable growth, highlighted by a 647% surge in live streaming views and a record-breaking 3.4 billion digital views. As PSL X, held from April 11 to May 25, 2025, captivated millions across Pakistan and beyond, this article explores its milestones, impact, and vision for the future.
A Decade of Resilience and Triumph
Since its inception in 2016, the PSL has evolved from a bold vision into a premier T20 cricket league, overcoming challenges like security concerns and logistical hurdles. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi described the league as a “symbol of resilience, hope, and unity,” reflecting its ability to bring international cricket back to Pakistan’s home grounds. The 10th edition, hosted across Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi, featured 34 thrilling matches, culminating in a historic final where Lahore Qalandars clinched their third title in four years against Quetta Gladiators at a packed Gaddafi Stadium.
Naqvi praised the contributions of franchise owners, title sponsor HBL, players, broadcasters, security agencies, and fans, emphasizing their role in making PSL a global phenomenon. “The PSL has delivered quality cricket and unforgettable moments for millions of fans across the globe,” he said, reaffirming the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) commitment to further elevating the league.
Record-Breaking Digital Engagement
The workshops in Lahore presented compelling data on PSL X’s growth, with digital metrics stealing the spotlight. Live streaming views skyrocketed from 455 million in PSL 9 to 3.4 billion in PSL X, a staggering 647.25% increase. Fans consumed 48.5 billion cumulative minutes on streaming platforms, with 511 million views for the playoffs and final alone. This digital dominance underscores the league’s growing appeal, particularly among younger audiences.
The PSL’s inclusivity was evident in its viewership demographics: 53% from urban areas and 47% from rural regions, with 33% of live streaming viewers being female. With a social media following of 22 million, the league has become a household name, uniting diverse communities across Pakistan. Salman Naseer noted, “The diverse and widespread viewership shows that the PSL has become a movement that unites fans across the globe.”
Historic On-Field Achievements
PSL X set new benchmarks in cricketing performance. The season saw a record 520 sixes and 435 wickets, alongside 19 scores exceeding 200 runs—the highest in any PSL edition. Lahore Qalandars made history with a record-breaking chase of 202 in the final, the highest successful chase in T20 final history, and hit an unprecedented 124 sixes as a team. For the first time, an Emerging category batter was named Player of the Tournament, highlighting the league’s role in nurturing young talent.
The inclusion of 520 foreign players in the draft, with 59 featuring in the tournament, added global flair to PSL X. The introduction of a dedicated Urdu commentary feed for full matches further enhanced accessibility, resonating with local fans and enriching the viewing experience.
Stakeholder Collaboration Fuels Success
The workshops, led by Salman Naseer, underscored the importance of stakeholder collaboration. Franchise owners, HBL, media partners, and commercial sponsors reviewed data-driven insights comparing PSL 9 and PSL X, showcasing the league’s financial and competitive growth. Naseer highlighted the trust of long-standing partners, stating, “These numbers reflect the relentless efforts of everyone involved in the league’s success.”
Recent reports indicate the PCB’s ambition to expand the PSL to eight teams for PSL 11, though discussions remain stalled due to unresolved financial models and franchise valuations. Despite these challenges, the league’s current franchise fees are targeted to Juno increase by 25%, signaling its financial strength.
A Vision for the Future
The PSL’s journey is far from over. With plans to expand into new cities like Peshawar and a potential nationwide trophy tour, the league aims to deepen its national and global impact. Naqvi’s vision includes a more competitive and inclusive tournament, while Naseer teased major changes, such as a possible auction-style player draft for PSL 2026. These initiatives promise to elevate the PSL’s global standing, rivaling top T20 leagues like the Indian Premier League.
Why PSL Matters to Pakistan
The PSL is more than a cricket tournament—it’s a cultural phenomenon that unites Pakistan’s diverse communities and showcases the country’s cricketing prowess. Its ability to attract international stars, engage millions digitally, and deliver thrilling performances has made it a source of national pride. As Naseer stated, “Exciting times lie ahead as we unravel new stories and thrilling experiences for the fans.”
