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The Pakistan Super League returns for another season as several key players from Pakistan and around the world prepare for another competitive campaign, with the tournament set to commence on March 26.

With two new franchises added this year, the tournament has expanded further, increasing the scale of the competition and opening the door for more players to showcase their talent.

Here’s a look at the captains leading their teams in PSL 2026:

1. Peshawar Zalmi – Babar Azam

Babar Azam will lead Peshawar Zalmi
Babar Azam will lead Peshawar Zalmi (Image Source: X / @dubai_152)

Peshawar Zalmi will once again be led by Babar Azam. Long ago the stylish right-hander was dominating world cricket piling up runs in every format.

Lately though things haven’t quite clicked with the bat for him. The PSL now gives Babar the perfect stage to rediscover that rhythm remind everyone of the class he’s got and lead Zalmi’s campaign strong.

2. Lahore Qalandars – Shaheen Shah Afridi

Shaheen Afridi will lead Lahore Qalandars
Shaheen Afridi will lead Lahore Qalandars (Image Source: X / @espncricinfo)

Shaheen Shah Afridi continues captaining the defending champions Lahore Qalandars. The left-arm quick has had some ups and downs with the ball recently but his presence still means a lot to the team.

When Shaheen gets the new ball swinging early he lifts the whole side’s energy and sets the tone right from the start.

3. Islamabad United – Shadab Khan

Shadab Khan stays the central figure for Islamabad United and keeps guiding them as captain. This leg-spinning all-rounder has been consistent with the franchise over the years.

Whether breaking partnerships with his leggies or chipping in handy runs Shadab’s all-round game and sharp brain often make the difference.

4. Quetta Gladiators – Saud Shakeel

Quetta Gladiators champs back in 2019 are still hunting for another title to add. With Saud Shakeel now leading the side the team will hope this fresh leadership helps them move past those lean years. Shakeel’s calm nature and solid batting could bring some real stability to Quetta.

5. Karachi Kings – David Warner

David Warner to captain Karachi Kings
David Warner to captain Karachi Kings (Image Source: X / @TsMeSalman)

Karachi Kings get one of the most most experienced guy in world cricket as captain David Warner. The Aussie opener has led sides in plenty of T20 leagues and brings all that know-how to the PSL. He showed in the recent Big Bash that he’s still got plenty left which should get Karachi fans buzzing.

6. Multan Sultans – Ashton Turner

Multan Sultans have given the captaincy to Ashton Turner this season. The Australian middle-order batter is known for clearing the ropes and finishing under pressure. With years of T20 experience Turner will be expected to steer the side smart through those tricky moments in the tournament.

7. Rawalpindi Pindi – Mohammad Rizwan

Mohammad Rizwan will lead Rawalpindi
Mohammad Rizwan will lead Rawalpindi (Image Source: X / @TsMeSalman)

Rawalpindi Pindi will be captained by Mohammad Rizwan. The wicketkeeper-batter has been out of Pakistan’s national team for a while after a tough patch with the bat.

Often criticised for his strike rate and tempo Rizwan now gets a big chance in the PSL to shut those doubts and prove he’s still got a lot to give.

8. Hyderabad Kingsmen – Marnus Labuschagne

One of the more interesting captaincy picks this season is Marnus Labuschagne leading Hyderabad Kingsmen. The Aussie batter is mostly known for those long gruellling Test knocks not T20 cricket.

That makes this move pretty intriguing as Labuschagne now switches to a format that needs quick thinking innovation and a whole different batting style.

IPL 2026: Who are the captains of all 10 teams this season?