Who Will Lead Sialkot in PSL? Owner Breaks Silence

The owner of PSL’s newly formed Sialkot franchise, Hamza Majeed, has revealed important insights about the team’s future, including the captaincy, squad planning, and stadium upgrades.

Speaking to the media at the Sports Journalists Association of Lahore office located at the National Hockey Stadium, Hamza Majeed said that the Sialkot team’s captain will be a Pakistani player. He clarified that the franchise is fully committed to promoting local talent and giving Pakistani cricketers a leadership role.

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Why the Name ‘Sialkot’ Was Chosen

Hamza Majeed explained that the name Sialkot was selected because the city has a deep love for cricket and has been deprived of top-level action for a long time.

He admitted that the current condition of Sialkot Cricket Stadium is not up to modern standards, adding that improving the stadium is a top priority. Until renovation work is completed, Faisalabad Stadium may be used as an alternate home ground.

According to Majeed, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi is fully supportive, and practical steps will soon be taken to upgrade the Sialkot stadium.

Team Name, Draft & Star Players

Hamza Majeed confirmed that consultations regarding the franchise are ongoing, with official documents expected to be signed next week. The complete team name will be announced soon.

He also revealed that the player draft process will be completed by the end of this month. While expressing interest in top stars, he said:

“Everyone would love to have Babar Azam in their team.”

He added that 6 to 7 Australian players have already registered for the PSL draft, and the franchise hopes to secure 3 to 4 overseas players for the Sialkot squad.

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Focus on Local Talent & Coaching Staff

Hamza Majeed emphasized that the franchise wants to include current Pakistan playing XI members and give opportunities to young cricketers from Sialkot based on performance.

He confirmed that:

• The team captain will be Pakistani

• The coaching staff will be selected purely on merit

• A foreign coach will be considered only if suitable local coaches are unavailable

Future Vision

He concluded by saying that all cricket stakeholders are being taken on board, and the franchise also aims to promote tape-ball cricket at the grassroots level.

The Sialkot franchise is set to make its PSL debut in 2026, marking a historic moment for the city and its cricket-loving fans.

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