The Rawalpindi Express is ready to bring his hometown to center stage. In a passionate appeal that has already ignited social media chatter, former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar has publicly called for the addition of a new Pakistan Super League franchise named “Pindi Express,” his nickname during his playing days, urging the Pakistan Cricket Board to consider Rawalpindi as the next expansion city in PSL XI.
Shoaib Akhtar, who still holds the record for the fastest delivery in international cricket, made the comments during an appearance discussing the ongoing PSL. He went on to emphasize that the passion and cricketing pedigree of Rawalpindi make it a natural choice for a new franchise.
The proposed franchise name — Pindi Express — is a clever nod to Akhtar’s own moniker, blending nostalgia with regional pride. The Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium has become a staple in recent PSL seasons, often producing high-scoring thrillers and drawing packed crowds. While the city currently plays host to several PSL teams, it remains the only major cricketing hub in Pakistan without a franchise of its own.
Shoaib Akhtar also pointed to the region’s track record of producing top-tier pacers — including himself, Mohammad Wasim, and more recently, Haris Rauf — as evidence of Rawalpindi’s contribution to Pakistan’s cricketing landscape.
“𝐄𝐤 𝐏𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐢 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐡𝐨𝐠𝐢”
– Shoaib Akhtar when asked about the possibility of two new teams joining PSL next year
🎥: The DugOut on Tamasha#HBLPSLX | #PakistanCricket
pic.twitter.com/N0Ts0uFeTt— Usman (@jamilmusman_) April 14, 2025
Akhtar’s lobbying is likely to spark a wave of online support across platforms. Several fans and former players will likely echo his sentiment, calling for a Rawalpindi-based side to be added when the PSL eventually expands to eight teams — a move that has been hinted at by the PCB before but is expected to be made official next year.
PSL CEO Salman Naseer has not been shy about exploring new markets, with cities like Faisalabad and Sialkot also mentioned in discussions. However, Shoaib Akhtar’s star power — combined with Rawalpindi’s proven ability to host blockbuster fixtures — could tip the scales.
A Rawalpindi franchise would add further geographical balance to the PSL map and deepen fan engagement. Given the stadium’s proximity to Islamabad, it also sets up a tantalizing rivalry: Islamabad United vs. Pindi Express — The Twin City Derby.
For now, it’s just a vision — but when Shoaib Akhtar speaks, Pakistan cricket listens. If his dream takes flight, PSL XI could see the debut of a franchise that bowls with pace, passion, and a Rawalpindi roar behind it.
Prosports.pk brings you the latest updates from the world of PSL! Stay updated with the latest PSL X points table, PSL X Squads, PSL X Schedule, PSL Live Score & Much more!
