Sialkot Stallions Sign Steve Smith Directly for PSL Season 11

ISLAMABAD: (Web Desk) – Sialkot Stallions, a newly formed Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise, have made a major statement ahead of PSL Season 11 by directly signing Australian star batter Steve Smith.

According to sources, Steve Smith chose to join Sialkot Stallions after being impressed by the franchise’s attractive offer and professional management. The former Australian captain recently delivered strong performances in the Big Bash League, which further increased his demand among PSL teams.

In another significant development, former Australian Test captain Tim Paine has been appointed as the head coach of Sialkot Stallions. The franchise management officially announced his appointment through social media, highlighting its commitment to building a competitive and well-structured team.

Sialkot Stallions are owned by the OZ Group, which secured the franchise rights for a record Rs 18.5 billion for a 10-year period, making it the most expensive team purchase in PSL history.

OZ Group chairman Hamza Majid Chaudhry, who hails from Faisalabad, shared that he spent many years living in Australia before deciding to return to Pakistan two years ago. He said his decision was driven by a deep love for the country and a desire to contribute positively to Pakistan’s future.

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Speaking to a private TV channel, Majid Chaudhry said that cricket is the only sport that truly unites the entire nation, and PSL has become a powerful symbol of Pakistan’s global identity. He revealed that his team had been working for the past one and a half years to acquire a PSL franchise.

He further stated that while many people talk about leaving the country, he chose to return because of his strong emotional connection with Pakistan. According to him, PSL is not just a cricket league but a platform that represents Pakistan’s economy and international image.

Discussing future plans, Majid Chaudhry emphasized that Sialkot Stallions will rely more on local cricket legends rather than foreign mentors. He said Pakistan has produced world-class players, adding that legends like Shoaib Akhtar and Shahid Afridi are like elder brothers to him and share close personal ties.

He concluded by saying that PSL management aims to make the league the number one cricket league in the world, and if high standards are maintained, this goal can be achieved in the near future.