Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unveiled the trophy for the new season, 9, of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) in Lahore. The unveiling ceremony was held at the Polo Ground in Lahore in a unique style. National and international horse-riding teams arrived at the venue carrying flags.
The trophy is “The Orion Trophy” and will be a source of motivation for all the teams participating in the tournament. The trophy embodies the spirit of the HBL Pakistan Super League where each team shines brightly as they strive for glory.
Chairman PCB Mohsin Naqvi and owners of PSL teams were present at the event. The special band also made the ceremony memorable by playing various tunes. Captains of the teams, including Shaheen Afridi, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Shan Masood, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shadab Khan, also attended the ceremony.
Naqvi stated, “It is a pleasure to announce that HBL PSL is entering its ninth season, and I am proud to say that HBL PSL continues to be a success story for Pakistan cricket.”
“Today, as we unveil this Orion trophy, we look forward to a month-long celebration of the beautiful game of cricket and the excitement and drama that accompanies it.”
“HBL PSL connects to the hearts of the people of Pakistan, who cherish every thrilling moment of the game. Be it towering sixes, high-intensity bowling, and top-notch catches, HBL PSL offers an emotional rollercoaster.’
“I would like to thank the title sponsor of the league HBL, they truly have uplifted the game of cricket in our country through their support and have become synonymous with the name of the league. All the successes over the past eight years are a testament to HBL’s commitment to the Pakistan Super League.”
“I also want to thank the representatives of all six teams for being present here today and I wish all teams the best of luck for the season. May the best team lift this prestigious trophy.”
HBL PSL 9 will commence on February 17 at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Gaddafi Stadium will host nine matches. After the opening ceremony, Lahore Qalandars will face Islamabad United in the first match. Lahore Qalandars, Quetta Gladiators, Peshawar Zalmi, and Islamabad United have set up their camps in Lahore. All four teams will start their practice sessions today.
Orion, in various mythologies and cultures, is often associated with a prominent constellation located in the celestial equator. The constellation is easily recognizable by three bright stars forming Orion’s Belt and is visible from both hemispheres, making it one of the most well-known and easily identifiable star patterns in the night sky.
Made from pure silver and coated in white gold, the elegant trophy exudes prestige. Each detail is plated with white gold, adding grace that signifies the excellence of the HBL Pakistan Super League. With the investment of 900+ hours of non-stop work and hand placement of 18,000 stones, this marvel stands tall and proud.