Pakistan’s cricket fans have not witnessed international cricket at their home grounds since the unfortunate terrorist attack on Sri Lankan cricket team in 2009. Despite numerous efforts by Pakistan cricket board (PCB), no international team has agreed to visit Pakistan on grounds of security concerns. Since then Pakistan has been forced to play its home series on neutral venues at England and UAE.
Since 2009, Security situation has improved many folds in Pakistan. Fans are awaiting the return of international cricket to their favorite grounds. PCB is eager to demonstrate that Pakistan can securely host an international sporting event without any problems. The Pakistan Super League has been planned not only to provide international exposure to domestic cricketers but will also serve the as a stepping-stone for return of international cricket.
PSL will initially involve 5 clubs managed under franchised system and it will replace Faysal Bank T20 Cup to become the premier professional T20 cricket tournament in Pakistan. The headquarters of PSL has been established in Lahore. First match of 2013 seaon, the inaugural season will be played on 26 March 2013. The season will consist of total 23 matches. All 5 teams will play each other twice in a league format and top four teams will participate in Semi Finals and ultimately Final. All matches of 2013 season will be played at the same venue.
As per the organizers total financial worth of PSL would be around $100 million. The management is hopeful to complete the franchise and player auction by in February 2013. Each team will consist of 10 local players in addition to 6 international players and 2 emerging talents. PCB has also confirmed that positive response has been received from Sri Lanka, Australia and South Africa Cricket boards. Involvement of Indian players has also been hinted but it more likely that Indian players will not be granted NOC by BCCI for participating in PSL.
In order to attract players for PSL, two matches were organized by PCB staring World XI lead by Sanath Jayasuriya and Pakistan All Stars lead by Shahid Afridi at National Stadium Karachi in October 2012. Top players from Pakistan and many international participated in the event. The event successfully demonstrated that atmosphere is Pakistan has improved to welcome international cricket as soon as possible.
