PSL's New Six-a-Side Tournament: What It Means for Cricket Fans

Dr. Annelies De Vos · 2026-10-23

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is considering adding a six-a-side tournament to its calendar, according to league CEO Salman Naseer. The move aims to create a new revenue stream and keep the PSL brand active throughout the year. While details are still being finalized, the proposal has generated buzz among cricket enthusiasts. Here's what we know so far. ### What Did the PSL Chief Executive Say? Salman Naseer confirmed the idea during a recent PSL podcast, describing the plans as "exciting" but not yet finalized. He mentioned that the tournament, potentially named HBL PSL Sixes, would take place in the off-season and could resemble the Hong Kong Sixes format. "Nothing is finalised, but there are some exciting plans, and one of them is a sixes tournament," Naseer said. Naseer, who also advises PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, added that the board will study the feasibility of launching the event and hopes it becomes a recurring feature. A smaller tournament could also travel to cities where the PSL hasn't yet played, expanding the league's reach. ### PCB's Vision for a Year-Round PSL Presence The proposal aligns with PCB's broader strategy to keep the PSL brand active all year. Officials believe a six-a-side event, with its quick matches and fewer players, can achieve this with minimal logistical demands. It would also help take the league to smaller Pakistani cities, building a stronger fan base. Since fully moving to Pakistan in 2020, the PSL has used four venues: Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi. The league started in 2016 with matches in the UAE and gradually shifted games to Pakistan. A traveling sixes tournament could further cement the PSL's presence across the country. ### The Challenge: Finding a Window for Foreign Players The biggest hurdle is scheduling. Overseas players must be available, but international and franchise commitments leave limited gaps. The PCB has not announced any dates for the sixes event. The league already faces scheduling pressure, with the 2027 PSL set to clash with the IPL for the third consecutive year. Discussions about moving the PSL to January are also ongoing. The governing council is expected to confirm next year's schedule and auction details soon. Any decision on the sixes tournament may follow, though no timeline has been given. ### What's Next for the PSL Sixes? Several key details remain undecided, including the number of teams, match format, and venues. Naseer emphasized that plans are at an early stage, and the PCB will explore options before making further announcements. For fans, the prospect of a fast-paced six-a-side tournament is exciting—it could bring more action, more cities, and more opportunities to enjoy cricket. As the PSL continues to innovate, the sixes tournament could be a game-changer, offering a fresh way to engage fans and generate revenue. Stay tuned for updates as the story develops.