PCB Unviels HBL PSL X Star-Studded Lineup of Commentators
Lahore, 6 April 2025: Former England Test skipper Sir Alastair Cook is set to make his HBL PSL commentary debut, as the Pakistan Cricket Board today revealed a glittering lineup of commentators for the 10th edition of the league.
The six-franchise competition will kick off on 11 April at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium and wrap up with the grand finale at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on 18 May. Matches will be staged across four venues: Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi, with a total of 34 games lined up.
Joining Cook on the commentary roster is former MCC President and seasoned broadcaster Mark Nicholas, who has been a familiar voice in cricket circles since his retirement in 1995, having worked with SKY Sports and Channel 9. Also representing England are Dominic Cork and Mark Butcher, while South Africa will be represented by Jean-Paul Duminy and veteran analyst Mike Haysman.
From Bangladesh, celebrated commentator Athar Ali Khan will be part of the panel, alongside New Zealand’s former Test opener Martin Guptill. Australia’s World Cup-winning former cricketer Lisa Sthalekar also brings her experience and voice to the mic.
Representing Pakistan:
Pakistan’s commentary contingent features four former Test captains — Aamir Sohail, Ramiz Raja, Waqar Younis, and Wasim Akram — with both Waqar and Wasim also inducted into the ICC and PCB Halls of Fame. They will be joined by former Test cricketer Bazid Khan, ex-women’s captain Urooj Mumtaz, and seasoned cricket analyst Sikander Bakht.
In a landmark development, HBL PSL X will offer complete match coverage in Urdu for the first time ever. The dedicated Urdu panel includes Ali Younis, Aqeel Samar, Marina Iqbal, Salman Butt, and Tariq Saeed, with support from other Pakistani commentators during select segments.
Hosting duties for the tournament will be handled by Erin Holland and Zainab Abbas.
HBL PSL CEO Salman Naseer said:
“We’re thrilled to welcome an exceptional commentary team, boasting some of the most recognizable and respected voices in the game — from legendary former captains to renowned broadcasters. Their presence will significantly elevate our production quality and reinforce the international appeal of the HBL PSL.
“The introduction of full-match Urdu commentary is a major step in connecting more deeply with our fans across the country. With this mix of iconic voices and fresh broadcast innovations, we’re looking forward to delivering a memorable experience to cricket lovers both in Pakistan and around the globe.”
