PCB chief announces new stadium plans at PSL Roadshow in London

LONDON (Dunya News) – The Pakistan Super League staged a landmark roadshow at the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground, marking the first time the league has presented its global showcase at the iconic venue.

The event, organised ahead of the eleventh edition of the HBL PSL, brought together senior cricket officials, star players, former international greats, commercial partners and global investors.

Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Dr Mohammad Faisal, described the gathering at Lord’s as a “historic achievement”, noting that such initiatives strengthen sports diplomacy and offer a new dimension to Pakistan’s cricket outreach.

PSL Chief Executive Salman Naseer said the successful event at Lord’s reflected the league’s growing international footprint. He added that bids remain open for two new franchise teams and reaffirmed PSL’s commitment to expanding cricket opportunities and developing the domestic fan base.

Speaking during a panel discussion, Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi said the PCB and PSL administration were working jointly to elevate the league’s global standing, with the ambition of making it the world’s top T20 competition. He emphasised that Pakistan’s national players possess exceptional talent and that the league continues to give young cricketers platforms to refine their skills.

Naqvi announced that the PCB will construct new cricket stadiums in Islamabad and Muzaffarabad, adding that weekly musical concerts will be held during the league to boost fan engagement. He also confirmed plans for another international roadshow in New York, alongside the upcoming launch of a dedicated OTT platform. He stated that all bids for new PSL investments would remain transparent and fully open, noting that investors have consistently benefited from their association with the league.

Former captain Wasim Akram praised the PSL for providing extensive opportunities to local talent and described it as a major source of entertainment for fans across Pakistan. “Everyone involved has contributed to the league’s success,” he said.

Former PCB chairman Ramiz Raja echoed these sentiments, emphasising that the league has played a vital role in advancing Pakistan’s cricketing ecosystem by allowing young players to share the field with leading international stars. 

The roadshow drew a strong presence from current cricketers, including Babar Azam, Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan, as well as singer Ali Zafar, who joined global investors and commercial partners in attendance.

Addressing the audience, Babar Azam said he had learned significantly from playing alongside senior international players, describing established cricketers as “moving academies” whose guidance has shaped his career. He added that he continually shares his own experience with younger team-mates and sees the PSL’s consistent success as a major milestone for Pakistan cricket.

Sahibzada Farhan highlighted the importance of domestic cricket in polishing players’ skills, noting that the PSL further enhances performance by offering exposure against world-class opposition.

Fast bowler Haris Rauf said the league had transformed his career, calling PSL an integral part of his journey and expressing pride in representing Pakistan at the highest level.

The London roadshow concluded with a strong message of growth, innovation and expanded international engagement, as the PCB and PSL officials outlined ambitious plans to take the league into its next era.