PSL 12 to begin on March 18, eight-team format retained

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is set to return with its eight-team format as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed the window for the 12th edition of the tournament.

HBL PSL 12 will be played from 18 March to 2 May 2027, with all eight franchises set to compete for the coveted title.

The window was finalised following consultations with the key stakeholders during the PSL Governing Council meeting held in London on 1 September 2026, which was attended by owners and representatives of all eight franchises.

The upcoming edition will build on a record-breaking HBL PSL 11, which marked the first season featuring eight teams. The 2026 edition also introduced a player auction, replacing the previous draft system.

The last season ended with Peshawar Zalmi lifting the trophy after defeating debutants Hyderabad Kingsmen by five wickets in the final at Gaddafi Stadium on 3 May 2026. The final attracted a record crowd of 32,461 spectators, while Zalmi ended a nine-year wait for the PSL title.

With the tournament window now confirmed, attention will turn towards the key squad-building stages ahead of PSL 12. The PCB is expected to announce details regarding direct signings, player retentions, the trade window and the player auction in the coming months.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi said the previous season demonstrated the league’s growing potential and expressed confidence that the next edition would raise the standard further.

HBL PSL CEO Salman Naseer said the upcoming milestones would bring further excitement for fans as the eight franchises prepare their squads for the 2027 season.

The PCB said complete details regarding the schedule, venues, player auction and ticketing arrangements will be announced in due course.