The Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 10 resumed with an emotional and action-packed weekend, blending thrilling cricket with a powerful tribute to the nation’s armed forces.
In a special ceremony at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Saturday, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) formally dedicated the 10th edition of PSL to the Pakistan Armed Forces, honouring their sacrifices following the recent military conflict with India.
Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir and DG ISPR Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry attended the event, which saw the stadium erupt with chants of “Pakistan Zindabad” and “Pak Army Zindabad.” A moment of silence was observed for the martyrs of the recent skirmishes, followed by emotional performances by Asrar Shah and Sahir Ali Bagga. The stadium was awash in national colours, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display over Rawalpindi’s night sky.
Saturday was dedicated to the Pakistan Army, with the Navy and Air Force to be honoured on Sunday and Monday respectively, as part of a three-day tribute woven into the PSL fixtures.
On the cricketing front, Karachi Kings booked their place in the playoffs after defeating Peshawar Zalmi by 23 runs in a high-scoring encounter. Chasing a mammoth 238, Zalmi managed 214/5 despite a spirited chase, falling short of the target. The victory also confirmed Islamabad United’s progression, joining Quetta Gladiators and the Kings in the final four.
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Now, all eyes are on the crucial clash between Lahore Qalandars and Peshawar Zalmi, scheduled for Sunday. With Qalandars sitting fourth with 9 points and Zalmi just behind with 8, the match serves as a virtual knockout—winner takes the final playoff slot. If the game is abandoned, Qalandars will qualify by virtue of their superior points total.
Adding firepower to their ranks, Lahore Qalandars welcomed back Sri Lankan power-hitter Kusal Perera, alongside seasoned internationals Shakib Al Hasan and Bhanuka Rajapaksa. They arrive as replacements for injured players Tom Curran and Daryl Mitchell.
Perera, speaking after landing in Lahore, said:
“It feels great to be back with Lahore Qalandars. Returning at such a crucial stage is an honour. I’ll give my all to help the team reach the finals.”
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Qalandars’ Team Director, Sameen Rana, hailed the return:
“Kusal’s experience and energy are a big boost. We’re thrilled to have him back at this decisive point in the tournament.”
PSL 10 had temporarily paused earlier this month due to the border crisis with India but resumed on May 17 amid high security and renewed national spirit. The grand final is set for May 25 at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, promising a powerful finale to a tournament that has become more than just cricket—a celebration of unity, resilience, and national pride.
