Sialkot PSL franchise unveils vision focused on heritage, infrastructure and local talent
Special Correspondent
The newly-inducted Sialkot franchise of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) has laid out an ambitious and wide-ranging roadmap under the leadership of owner Hamza Majeed.
Majeed, who addressed a media gathering at the National Hockey Stadium, Lahore, on Friday made it clear that the franchise’s objectives extend well beyond lifting trophies, with a strong emphasis on reviving Sialkot’s rich cricketing heritage and giving the historic city a permanent and proud place on the PSL map.
Tribute to Allama Iqbal, identity for Sialkot
Explaining the philosophy behind the team’s naming direction, Majeed said it is a conscious tribute to Allama Muhammad Iqbal, whose birthplace is Sialkot.
“Iqbal’s Sialkot must be highlighted to the world,” he said, adding that the franchise aims to reflect both the emotional passion of Sialkot’s people and the city’s historical significance.
He revealed that during a recent visit to Sialkot, the franchise management experienced overwhelming public enthusiasm, which reinforced the need for the city to have its own distinct PSL identity.
Infrastructure revival a top priority
On infrastructure, Majeed pledged to personally spearhead efforts to restore the Sialkot Test Centre, which has remained neglected in recent years.
While acknowledging that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has offered Faisalabad Stadium as a temporary home venue, he stressed that establishing a proper home ground in Sialkot remains the franchise’s top priority.
He further announced that work on a state-of-the-art High Performance Centre will commence within the next 10 days, describing it as a major step towards long-term player development.
Recognising Pakistan’s vibrant tape-ball cricket culture, Majeed said the franchise will actively support players emerging from that circuit, ensuring grassroots talent receives structured pathways to professional cricket.
Squad building: Merit above all
Discussing team composition, Majeed disclosed that the franchise is currently in contact with six to seven Australian cricketers, with three to four expected to join the squad. The team also plans to utilise the expertise of Australian specialists in key technical areas.
However, he was categorical that all selections will be strictly merit-based, following a clear priority order:
- Leading national (Pakistani) players
- Local talent from Sialkot
- International players selected purely on merit
A similar approach will be adopted for the coaching staff, with local coaches given preference unless specific expertise is unavailable domestically.
Honouring legends, looking ahead
Majeed also highlighted the franchise’s intent to honour Sialkot’s cricketing greats, specifically naming legendary batsman Zaheer Abbas, as part of preserving the city’s cricketing legacy.
He confirmed that the official team name, logo and branding will be unveiled next week, marking the next milestone in the franchise’s journey.
Concluding his address, Majeed expressed confidence in the project’s preparedness and ambition.
“We are here with a complete business plan and full preparation. Our primary target is to win HBL PSL 11,” he said, while promising innovative strategies and initiatives that, according to him, have “never been seen before in Pakistan cricket.”
With a blend of heritage, infrastructure development and a merit-driven approach, the Sialkot franchise appears poised to make a strong statement as it prepares for its debut season in the HBL PSL.
