Sialkot Stallionz have recruited former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi as the team’s mentor ahead of the PSL 2026. The shift is the first off-field decision of the franchise before its debut in PSL 11.
Stallionz are new to the league and are preparing to compete on their debut as the tournament starts this year. Afridi’s appointment brings immediate experience and visibility to the team, with expectations growing about the expansion sides.
Before the announcement, there had been speculation that Shoaib Malik would be appointed a mentor. Malik has a long link with the original Sialkot Stallions in domestic cricket and recently confirmed he would not play in the PSL anymore. However, the franchise has now confirmed Afridi for the role.
Afridi has a history of playing in the PSL, having played for several teams for seven years. He had played for Peshawar Zalmi, Karachi Kings, Multan Sultans, and Quetta Gladiators.
The mentor appointment is after the official unveiling of the Sialkot Stallionz name earlier this week. The franchise owner unveiled the team identity before PSL 11, which will be held between March 26 and May 3.
The name was revealed in a 3D animated video shared on X. The Stallionz brand is a tribute to the famous Sialkot Stallions home team, which dominated Pakistan’s National T20 Cup during the 2000s and early 2010s.
