Pakistan unveils dazzling ‘Orion Trophy’ for 9th PSL season beginning Saturday

ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Tuesday unveiled the glittering Twenty20 Pakistan Super League (PSL) trophy in the eastern city of Lahore ahead of the 9th tournament edition, saying everyone was eager for a month-long cricket celebration that is scheduled to begin on February 17.
Naqvi, who was elected the new chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) earlier this month, was joined by star cricketers and PSL franchise owners at a ceremony where the first glimpse of “The Orion Trophy” was shared with the public.
Made of pure silver and coated in white gold, the elegant trophy is designed to exude prestige. The trophy is named after one of the most recognizable constellations and has been produced with over 900 hours of work that included the hand placement of 18,000 stones.
“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,” Naqvi said. “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.”
He said the T20 tournament had immense appeal for the people of Pakistan who cherished every thrilling moment of the game.
“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,” he continued. “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,” Naqvi added. “May the best team lift this prestigious trophy.”
The HBL PSL was introduced in 2015 and held its inaugural season in February 2016. It is a professional Twenty20 cricket league in Pakistan, comprising franchises representing six different cities.
The PSL has grown significantly in popularity and stature since its launch, becoming a major brand in the world of cricket.
It has attracted international cricket stars and has been successful in promoting local talent, contributing to the resurgence of the sport in Pakistan where people almost became deprived of it due to the security challenge of militant violence.
The league has also made a considerable impact commercially, with increasing television viewership, sponsorship deals and overall brand value.