Karachi Kings
At least Karachi Kings made their way into the playoffs last year - the first time they managed the feat since 2021. With that step of gentle progress out of the way, there is a sense of optimism within Kings, who have retained much of last year's setup. They also snapped up David Warner at the auction and reinstated him as captain. Adam Zampa and Moeen Ali are among the most significant additions, as Kings look to consolidate. Just like last year, they will be deprived of home advantage for most of the campaign. Only six games take place at the National Stadium, with both matches against rivals Lahore Qalandars being hosted at the Gaddafi Stadium instead.
Best result: Champions (2020)
2025 finish: 3rd (lost Eliminator)
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Strengths
- Kings boast explosiveness through the middle order with Azam Khan, Moeen Ali and Khushdil Shah, bolstered by Shahid Aziz's improved T20 pedigree compared to last year.
- The spin department is much better-rounded compared to last year: spearheaded by Zampa, and supported by capable finger spinners like Moeen and Khushdil. Salman Agha and Aqib Ilyas offer further options.
Weaknesses
- The top order could prove a bit light, as well as long in the tooth. Warner, 39, and Johnson Charles, 37, are the frontline opening options, with UAE captain Muhammad Waseem the reserve opener.
- The fast-bowling department lacks a true pace superstar. Hasan Ali, Abbas Afridi, Ihsanullah and Mir Hamza all have high ceilings, but it has been a while since any of them were at their best.
Multan Sultans
Well, is this a new team or is this a continuation of the Multan Sultans we all know? This appears to be a matter of interpretation, but the side now named Sultans built its entire team from scratch. Perth Scorchers legend Ashton Turner has been named captain, with Steve Smith added as a direct signing - arguably the biggest name at the PSL this year. The biggest focus is on a new ownership that has talked a big game of playing revolutionary cricket. However, the city nearly went unrepresented following a complicated auction procedure that renamed the team. Simply having Sultans around feels like a small mercy in itself.
Best result: Champions (2021)
Last season: 6th
Strengths
- A seasoned, decorated veteran of the T20 circuit in Turner should have more than what it takes to spearhead Sultans. He has led the Scorchers in the BBL to multiple titles and is at the head of a noticeable Australian contingent.
- They have a varied spin attack: left-arm wristspinner Tabraiz Shamsi played just four BBL matches but made an immediate impact. He has the experience of PSL stalwart Mohammad Nawaz for company, as well as young left arm spinners Arafat Minhas and Faisal Akram.
Weaknesses
- The pace bowling contingent looks especially light, with the temperamental Mohammad Wasim Jnr leading it. He has Arshad Iqbal, Muhammad Shahzad, and Shehzad Gul for company, as well as 41-year-old Australian Peter Siddle, who was surprisingly the second-most expensive overseas buy for the Sultans at the auction.
- It is tricky to see where the explosive power hitting will come from. Sahibzada Farhan is the most obvious option, but there's limited genuine power alongside him. Josh Phillippe had a modest BBL. Turner himself is the only other pedigreed big hitter.