The 2021 edition of the Pakistan Super League kicked off in spectacular fashion in Karachi on Saturday.
With 20 per cent crowd attendance at the National Stadium, fans in Pakistan got to enjoy some high-quality T20 action as Karachi Kings defeated Quetta Gladiators by seven wickets.
Anticipation was high as the T20 tournament began with fans allowed in limited capacity – around 7,500 which could be raised later in the tournament. What also added to the spectacle was the presence of Pakistan's new security unit that specialises in the use of roller skates while patrolling.
The action continued on the field after the opening ceremony. Karachi Kings had defeated Lahore Qalandars in the PSL final in November after the playoffs were postponed last March due to Covid-19. Three months later, the defending champions started things off with a comfortable win over 2019 winners Quetta.
Quetta's star West Indies batsman Chris Gayle hit 39 from 24 balls but his team could only manage 121 batting first. Karachi pacer Arshad Iqbal was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3-16 from his four overs.
In the chase, English wicketkeeper Joe Clarke smashed 46 from 23 balls as Karachi chased down the runs with seven wickets and 37 balls in hand.
The city of Karachi will host the first 20 league games with Lahore hosting the remaining 14 matches, including the final on March 22.
