By Asif Naveed
Sports Desk (MNN); The HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 is set to upgrade the viewing experience for cricket fans in Pakistan and worldwide, as the tournament introduces several broadcast and production enhancements. The season will begin on Thursday, March 26.
For the first time, PSL 11 will feature an exclusive Urdu commentary panel, complete with dedicated cameras, studio shows, highlights, and features, according to a Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) statement. The league will deliver a first-ever Urdu studio to engage fans across Pakistan and abroad.
Technological enhancements include Hawk-Eye services with all Decision Review System (DRS) features, off-bat visualizations, and bio-mechanical analysis of players’ movements. Player tracking technology returns with new features such as real-time field plotting and 3D stadium animation. Augmented reality and virtual reality graphics will also be integrated into live broadcasts.
Enhanced data analytics will provide in-depth statistics on teams and players. The PCB confirmed local and international broadcasters, with matches to be aired live in Pakistan on PTV, A Sports, Geo Super, and Ten Sports, while international audiences can watch via ESPN (Australia/New Zealand), T Sports and Tapmad (Bangladesh), Cricbuzz, Switch TV, ELIFE, STARZPLAY (Middle East and North Africa), Tapmad and VIU Hub (Sri Lanka), and Willow TV (US/Canada).
HBL PSL 11 will feature 44 matches across Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium and Karachi’s National Bank Stadium from March 26 to May 3. The schedule has been revised to limit the venues to two cities to reduce operational costs and conserve resources. Lahore will host 22 matches, including the final and eliminators, while Karachi will host 22 matches, including the qualifier.
Officials emphasized that the upgraded broadcast, including 30+ cameras, studio shows, replays, augmented and virtual reality graphics, and advanced Hawk-Eye technology, will provide fans with an immersive experience while supporting national resource management efforts.
