The Pakistan Super League (PSL) opening ceremony is one of the most awaited cricket events of the year. With top-tier musical performances, dazzling fireworks, and a star-studded lineup of celebrities, PSL 2025 is set to kick off in grand style on April 17th, 2025, at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the PSL opening ceremony, the match between Islamabad United and Lahore Qalandars, the players’ draft, the broadcast details, and how PSL 10 is shaping up to be the biggest edition yet!
Pakistan Super League 2025 – Quick Overview
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening Ceremony Date | April 17, 2025 |
| Opening Match | Islamabad United vs Lahore Qalandars |
| Venue | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
| Total Matches | 34 games |
| Final Match Date | May 19, 2025 |
| Players’ Draft | January 11, 2025 (Gwadar, Baluchistan) |
| Total Teams | 6 |
| Defending Champions | Islamabad United |
| Live Broadcast | PTV Sports, Geo Sports (Pakistan), International Channels |
The Pakistan Super League
This is the tenth edition of the PSL, which was first contested in 2016. It again will feature six teams, with the Karachi Kings, the Multan Sultans, Peshawar Zalmi, and the Quetta Gladiators joining the Qalandars and Islamabad United once more. And, unlike some franchise leagues, where one or two teams tend to dominate, the PSL is traditionally more egalitarian—every team has won the tournament at least once.
This edition begins later in the year than usual to accommodate the Champions Trophy, which Pakistan is hosting, in its traditional slot on the calendar. And it also means that, for the first time, it will be held at the same time as the Indian Premier League.
Read more: PSL vs IPL: Why PSL Is Better? Budget, Brand Value, Prize
Pakistan Super League 2025 Opening Ceremony
The PSL opening ceremony has become an annual tradition that draws massive attention worldwide. This year, the event promises to be grander than ever, with top musical acts, a spectacular fireworks display, and special appearances by celebrities.
Venue & Timing
- Location: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
- Stadium Capacity: 27,000 seats
- Doors Open: 3:30 PM (PST)
- Ceremony Start Time: 6:30 PM (PST)
The Opening Ceremony attendees
The ceremony promises a spectacular mix of music, celebrity appearances, and dazzling visuals to kick off PSL 2025 in style!
The guest of honour
The guest of honour at the opening ceremony will be the Prime Minister of Pakistan. Anweer Ul Haq who will say a few words to kick off the tournament. Joining him on stage will be the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board, Mohsin Khan, and the owners of the six teams competing – Ali and Amna Naqvi representing Islamabad United, Sallan Khan of the Karachi Kings, Fawad Rana of the Lahore Qalandars, Ali Tareen for the Multan Sultans, Javed Afridi on behalf of Peshawar Zalmi and Nadeem Omar, the owner of the Quetta Gladiators.
- Prime Minister of Pakistan: Anweer Ul Haq (opening remarks)
- Chairman of PCB: Mohsin Khan
- Team Owners:
- Ali & Amna Naqvi (Islamabad United)
- Sallan Khan (Karachi Kings)
- Fawad Rana (Lahore Qalandars)
- Ali Tareen (Multan Sultans)
- Javed Afridi (Peshawar Zalmi)
- Nadeem Omar (Quetta Gladiators)
| Team | Owner |
|---|---|
| Islamabad United | Ali & Amna Naqvi |
| Karachi Kings | Sallan Khan |
| Lahore Qalandars | Fawad Rana |
| Multan Sultans | Ali Tareen |
| Peshawar Zalmi | Javed Afridi |
| Quetta Gladiators | Nadeem Omar |
Entertainment Lineup
Several well-known Pakistan celebrities will be represented on stage. A number of musical groups will also entertain the crowd, with the headline acts being the legendary singers Ali Zafar and Aima Barg. 44-year-old Zafar is a popular singer-songwriter, actor, producer, and painter who has carved out a successful career for himself in Bollywood movies. Barg is a well-known figure in Pakistan whose voice has appeared on many soundtracks.
Zafar will be first on stage, followed by Baig. Then Punjabi Bhangra King Abrar Ul-Haq is scheduled to appear before the Tayyar Hiam anthem of the PSL, which a group of boys will perform. The evening will end with a Lahore-based rock band “Noori” performance, giving an example of their unique sound.
In addition, there will be a fireworks display and a laser light show to entertain the crowd.
- Headline Acts
- Ali Zafar (singer-songwriter, Bollywood actor)
- Aima Baig (renowned playback singer)
- Abrar Ul-Haq (Punjabi Bhangra King)
- Special Performances
- PSL anthem “Tayyar Hain” by a boys’ group
- Rock band “Noori” showcasing their unique sound
- Additional Highlights: Fireworks display and laser light show
| Artist | Specialty |
|---|---|
| Ali Zafar | Singer, songwriter, Bollywood actor |
| Aima Baig | Renowned playback singer |
| Abrar-ul-Haq | Punjabi Bhangra star |
| Noori (Band) | Rock band known for their energetic performances |
Buying tickets
Unfortunately, those hoping to buy tickets for the opening ceremony will be disappointed because they have already sold out. However, those in Pakistan can watch the ceremony, and the rest of the PSL matches live on PTV Sport or Geo Sport.
Those overseas can also catch the action, as the ceremony and the games will be broadcast in 16 countries, not only in Asia but also in the UK, the USA, South Africa, and New Zealand. Those interested should check local times for programmes.
Lahore Qalandars and Islamabad United
Lahore Qalandars
The Lahore Qalandars will appear on their home ground of the Gaddafi Stadium.
They are owned by the Rana brothers and were the second most expensive franchise in terms of the price paid for them when they were sold. They were also one of the teams sold to overseas investors. The team is currently captained by Shaheen Afridi and coached by former Pakistan international cricketer Aaqib Javed.
Runners-up in 2020, they lifted the title for the first time two years later, beating the Multan Sultans in the final. The two sides reached the final again the following year, with the Qalandars successfully defending their title by the narrowest of margins, winning by a single run.
Overseas players that have appeared for them include Dan Lawrence and Sam Billings of England, the South African Rassie van der Dussen, and the West Indian duo of Shai Hope and Carlos Braithwaite.
Their biggest rivals in the PSL are considered the Karachi Kings, a legacy of the historic economic and cultural rivalry between the two cities. Meanwhile, their matches against the Sultans have acquired the nickname ‘The Punjab Derby.”
Their home kit is all green.
Islamabad United
One of the founding members of the PSL, established in 2015, Islamabad United, is owned by Leonine Global Investments through its sports arm, Leonine Global Sports, owned by Amna and Ali Naqvi. They won the inaugural edition of the PSL, beating the Quetta Gladiators in the final, and won it for a second time two years later. Their win in the 2024 final made them the most successful franchise in the competition’s history so far.
Shadab Khan is their current captain, a position he has held since 2019. He has won 31 out of his 55 matches in charge of the franchise. Previous skippers include the Australian pair of Shane Watson and Usman Khawaja and the South African JP Duminy.
Major overseas stars who have played for them include England batter Alex Hales and New Zealanders Martin Guptill and Colin Munro.
Their home ground is Rawalpindi. Their primary colours are red, orange, and a light hue of brown.
Read more: Top 10 Cricket Betting App in Pakistan
Where to Watch the PSL 2025 Opening Ceremony & Matches?
If you couldn’t grab a ticket to the stadium, don’t worry! PSL 2025 will be broadcast live in 16 countries across multiple networks.
Pakistan:
- PTV Sports
- Geo Super
International Broadcasters:
- United Kingdom: Sky Sports
- USA & Canada: Willow TV
- Australia & New Zealand: Fox Sports
- South Africa: SuperSport
For online streaming, fans can watch on Tapmad, Daraz App, and YouTube Live (Geo Sports official channel).
How to Buy PSL 2025 Tickets?
If you’re looking to buy PSL 2025 tickets, here’s what you need to know:
- Official Website: PCB’s official ticketing partner website.
- Bank Counters: Designated banks across Pakistan sell tickets.
- Online Portals: Third-party platforms like BookMe.pk and Yayvo.com may offer limited tickets.
🎟 Important Note: Tickets for the PSL opening ceremony are already SOLD OUT!
Final Thoughts
The Pakistan Super League opening ceremony 2025 is shaping up to be an unforgettable event, with top musical performances, high-profile guests, and thrilling cricket action. As PSL enters its 10th edition, fans can expect an even grander spectacle, celebrating Pakistan’s love for cricket on the biggest stage.
So, mark your calendars for April 17, 2025, and get ready for the best PSL season yet!
FAQs
1. When and where is the PSL opening ceremony in 2025?
The PSL 10 opening ceremony is scheduled for April 17, 2025, at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
2. What time does the PSL opening ceremony start?
The stadium opens at 3:30 PM (PST), while the ceremony begins at 6:30 PM (PST).
3. Who are the main performers at the PSL opening ceremony?
The headline performers include Ali Zafar, Aima Baig, Abrar-ul-Haq, and Noori.
4. Can I still buy tickets for the PSL opening ceremony?
No, unfortunately, tickets for the PSL opening ceremony are sold out.
5. Where can I watch the PSL opening ceremony live?
You can watch it on PTV Sports and Geo Super in Pakistan or via international sports networks.
