Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has confirmed that new venues will be introduced for the Pakistan Super League in 2027, aligning the expansion push with strong fan turnout during the PSL 11 final in Lahore. The development follows a high-attendance finale at Gaddafi Stadium, where the scale of crowd engagement reinforced the board’s confidence in widening the tournament’s footprint across more cities.
Expansion plans move forward after restricted season
Naqvi indicated that future editions will extend beyond the current hosting structure, with additional cities set to be integrated into the schedule. Speaking to media after the final, he said, “We will do something special for them next year by the grace of Allah. We will also add new cities instead of limiting it to the current ones.”
As previously reported by cricexec, the latest season was held under operational limitations, with matches staged only in Lahore and Karachi during the early phase and initially without spectators due to fuel-saving measures.
Attendance was gradually permitted later in the tournament following government approval, allowing the final to be played in front of a full crowd, as reported previously by cricexec.
Lahore final reinforces fan demand and engagement
The atmosphere at Gaddafi Stadium became a focal point for the PCB’s assessment of the league’s growth trajectory. In a PCB statement, Naqvi said, “Cricket fans displayed remarkable discipline and tremendous enthusiasm during the final match at Gaddafi Stadium, creating an electric atmosphere with their passion and energy. I am truly impressed by the love and support shown by the people of Lahore for the game of cricket.”
He further added, “The spectators wholeheartedly appreciated both teams and thoroughly enjoyed the contest, proving once again that the citizens of Lahore have an unwavering and deep-rooted passion for cricket.”
The response from spectators, particularly in the final stages of the competition, provided a strong indication of sustained demand once access restrictions were lifted.
Tournament delivery under challenging conditions
Reflecting on the execution of the tournament, Naqvi acknowledged the difficulties faced during the season. Speaking to media after the final, he said, “It was a very difficult time, but by the grace of Allah we managed to conduct the PSL in a smooth and successful manner. A total of 32,600 fans attended the final, and the crowd during the playoff matches was also outstanding.”
Earlier in the tournament, crowd attendance required clearance amid efforts to reduce fuel consumption, with authorities weighing logistical concerns before allowing spectators to return in later matches.
On-field action caps competitive final
The PSL 11 final concluded with Peshawar Zalmi securing a five-wicket win over Hyderabad Kingsmen at Gaddafi Stadium. Hyderabad were bowled out for 129 in 18 overs, with Saim Ayub scoring 54 off 50 deliveries to anchor the innings.
Zalmi’s chase of 130 was rebuilt after an early collapse through an 85-run partnership between Aaron Hardie and Abdul Samad. Samad contributed 48 runs, while Hardie remained unbeaten on 56 off 39 balls to guide the team home with 28 deliveries to spare.
PSL growth outlook strengthens
Looking ahead, Naqvi outlined expectations for the next edition of the tournament. Speaking to reporters, he said, “God willing, PSL 12 will be bigger next year. This edition was very successful and the next one will be even better.”
The planned addition of new venues, combined with recent expansion in team numbers, signals the PCB’s continued focus on scaling the league’s reach and strengthening its position in the global cricket landscape.
