The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is poised for further expansion next year, with plans underway to introduce new host venues, according to Mohsin Naqvi, Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
Speaking to reporters after the PSL 11 final, Naqvi said the board is actively working to make the league bigger, more inclusive, and more accessible to fans across the country.
The inclusion of additional cities is expected to be a major step in broadening the tournament’s national footprint.
Lahore Crowd Praised for Passion and Discipline
Naqvi paid special tribute to cricket supporters in Lahore, describing the atmosphere at Gaddafi Stadium as “exceptional”.
He applauded fans for their discipline, energy, and sportsmanship during the final, noting that supporters passionately backed both teams and created a festival-like environment.
According to the PCB chairman, the response from Lahore’s residents reinforced the league’s importance as a unifying sporting event and highlighted Pakistan’s deep-rooted love for cricket.
Full-Capacity Final Approved After Government Clearance
The comments came following the PSL 11 final, which was played in front of a full-capacity crowd after receiving special government approval. Earlier in the tournament, attendance had been restricted due to national fuel-saving measures introduced amid global energy disruptions.
For much of the season, PSL matches were limited to just two cities — Lahore and Karachi — and several games were held without spectators.
Naqvi revealed that securing permission for crowds was a challenge, as the Prime Minister of Pakistan was focused on reducing fuel consumption. However, he added that the prime minister also recognized the cultural and economic importance of the PSL and ultimately approved spectators for the final match.
PSL 12 Promised to Be “Bigger and Better”
Looking ahead, Naqvi said preparations for the next edition are already underway, promising that PSL 12 will surpass the current season in scale and quality.
The proposed expansion of venues aligns with the PCB’s long-term strategy to elevate the league’s global profile.
The PSL has already grown from six to eight teams in recent years, and expanding to more cities is seen as the next logical step in strengthening fan engagement, regional representation, and commercial value.
Growing the League’s Global Standing
By adding new venues and reaching untapped markets, the PCB aims to position the PSL alongside the world’s leading T20 leagues. Officials believe broader geographic coverage will not only benefit fans but also attract more international players, sponsors, and broadcasters.
With record crowd interest and renewed expansion plans, the PSL appears set for a significant new chapter in its evolution as Pakistan’s premier cricket league.
