Sialkot Stallionz sign Steve Smith for PSL 11

Sialkot Stallionz, the Pakistan Super League’s newest franchise, on Tuesday confirmed the signing of former Australia captain Steve Smith for the league’s 11th edition, scheduled to be held from March 26 to May 3.

The franchise announced the signing through its official social media platforms, describing Smith as its first direct signing under the PSL’s new team model, which allows each franchise to secure one player outside the draft.

Stallionz acquired the right-handed batter through the direct signing category. Smith has previously featured in several major T20 leagues, including the Big Bash League (BBL), The Hundred, Indian Premier League (IPL), Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), and Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

In domestic and franchise T20 cricket, Smith has played 272 matches, scoring 6,242 runs at a strike rate of 131.38. His tally includes 30 half-centuries and five centuries.

Most recently, Smith represented the Sydney Sixers in BBL 15, where he scored 299 runs in six matches at a strike rate of 167.97, including one century and two half-centuries, helping his side reach the final.

Earlier, on January 29, Sialkot Stallionz appointed former Australian wicketkeeper-batter and captain Tim Paine as their head coach.