With PSL 9 officially releasing its national anthem, the cricket league has now released the exciting lineup of the stars set to perform at the opening ceremony of its ninth edition on Saturday, 17th February 2024.
The star-studded lineup features artists Arif Lohar, Noori, and Aima Baig. Ali Zafar will perform on the theme song of the edition. The opening ceremony is scheduled for 6:00 PM PST at Gaddafi Stadium Lahore.
“Join us for the spectacular grand opening of PSL 9 at Lahore Gaddafi Stadium,” said the statement.
“Be captivated by electrifying performances from Ali Zafar, Aima Baig, Arif Lohar, and Noori—it’s a night to remember. Get ready for fireworks and a mesmerising laser show,” the PSL stated.
Singer Ali Zafar has returned to lead the theme song of the cricket league after a hiatus of probably more than five years. A few days ago, PSL released its official anthem for the season ‘Khul Ke Khel’. The song is now leading the trends on YouTube.
The official anthem sung by Ali Zafar has received rave reviews from the audiences and followers of cricket. His previous songs for the PSL were massive hits including ‘Khel Jamay Ga produced in 2017.
Sexual harassment allegations kept PSL away from the singers for years. The singer is now back in action with the ninth installment of the cricket league. He was again on the verge of losing the contract due to the same allegations.
As per the media partner, PSL franchises objected to the decision of PCB to sign Ali Zafar for the song. A high official had committed to the plan and Ali Zafar had prepared three songs, one of which was selected.
https://x.com/thePSLt20/status/1758442162033721463?s=20
Later a female official from a PSL franchise criticised the decision of the PCB to hire Ali Zafar for composing and singing the song.
She contended that linking Ali Zafar with the anthem might adversely impact the league’s reputation, given the past harassment allegations against him. Considering her apprehensions, the PCB decided to retract its choice of involving Ali Zafar in the project. However later, the decision of PCB went in favor of Ali Zafar to sing the official anthem this year.