The third edition of Pakistan Super League will commence on 22nd February with the 1st clash between the reigning champions, Peshawar Zalmi, and the newly formed team – Multan Sultans.

The six franchises decided their team in the PSL draft which was held in Lahore in November last year. The teams were allowed to retain nine players and another replacement draft was held on January 29 for those teams to draft in replacements for unavailable players.

Two Bangladesh players, Tamim Iqbal and Shakib Al Hasan will feature for the current champions in the T20 league. Although Tamim had been released by Peshawar Zalmi, he was again picked by the same team in the auction. On the other hand, Shakib was retained by the same side.

Tamim and Shakib will be playing the first four matches in the league before joining Bangladesh national cricket team for a tri-series in Sri Lanka. The tri-series that also involves India alongside the hosts will take place from 6-18 March.

However, the Peshawar-based franchise have brought in replacements for these two players in January. Dwayne Smith is supposed to replace Tamim Iqbal, whereas Liam Dawson will playing in absence of Shakib Al Hasan.

The Peshawar squad also have the likes of Mohammad Hafeez, Darren Sammy, Dwayne Bravo, and Chris Jordan, who have the ability to perform in crucial moments.

Zalmi will play their last group match on 16 March. The final of PSL 2018 is scheduled to take place on 25 March.