The PSL first match — the game that started it all. On 4 February 2016, Islamabad United faced Quetta Gladiators at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in the opening match of the first Pakistan Super League. Here is the full story: the scorecard, the stars and why it mattered.
Quick answer: The first PSL match was played on 4 February 2016 in Dubai: Quetta Gladiators beat Islamabad United by 8 wickets. Islamabad made 128/7; Quetta chased 132/2, led by Luke Wright’s unbeaten 86 and Mohammad Nawaz’s 4/13.
The Scorecard
4 February 2016, Dubai International Cricket Stadium
- Islamabad United: 128/7 (20 overs) — Misbah-ul-Haq’s side struggled on a slow surface.
- Quetta Gladiators: 132/2 (16 overs) — a comfortable chase, sealed with 24 balls to spare.
- Result: Quetta Gladiators won by 8 wickets.
The Stars of the Night
- Luke Wright (86*) — the English opener’s unbeaten 86 carried the chase; he was player of the match.
- Mohammad Nawaz (4/13) — the young left-arm spinner’s four-wicket haul strangled Islamabad’s innings and announced him on the big stage.
- Sarfaraz Ahmed — Quetta’s captain, whose side would go on to reach the first two PSL finals.
Why It Mattered
The PSL was the PCB’s bold answer to the world’s franchise leagues, launched entirely in the UAE because international cricket had not yet returned to Pakistan. That first night in Dubai proved the concept: a packed house, global stars (Kevin Pietersen, Shane Watson and Chris Gayle featured across the tournament), and a competitive product. Islamabad United would have the last laugh that season — they beat Quetta in the final to become the first PSL champions.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the first PSL match?
4 February 2016, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Who played the first PSL match?
Islamabad United vs Quetta Gladiators.
Who won the first PSL match?
Quetta Gladiators, by 8 wickets (Luke Wright 86*, Mohammad Nawaz 4/13).
Who won the first PSL season?
Islamabad United — who beat Quetta Gladiators in the final.
