Steven Smith joins Sialkot Stallionz in one of the biggest PSL signings

Steve Smith (Photo by Matt King – CA/Cricket Australia via Getty Images)

In a major update regarding the upcoming 2026 edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), legendary Australia batter Steven Smith has been confirmed as a direct signing by the newest franchise, Sialkot Stallionz, a move that will boost the team’s star power ahead of its March 26 kickoff.

The right-handed batting maestro, who has been in strong T20 form recently, agreed to terms with Sialkot under the PSL’s new regulations allowing one direct signing per franchise outside the usual auction framework. This makes Smith one of the first and biggest overseas names locked in before the player auction scheduled for February 11.

Smith’s arrival marks his PSL debut, given that the 34-year-old has previously never featured in the league despite being one of the most accomplished batters of his generation. Announcing the arrival, the franchise took to their social media and revealed that the Aussie cricketer is among the biggest signings in the history of the Pakistan Super League.

The Sialkot Stallionz are one of two new franchises added to the PSL this year as part of the league’s expansion to eight teams, alongside Hyderabad. The Stallionz were acquired by OZ Developers in a record-breaking bid of PKR 1.85 billion (approx. USD 6.55 million), making them the most expensive franchise in PSL history.

Meanwhile, Sialkot has already made a high-impact coaching appointment, naming former Australia skipper and wicketkeeper-batter Tim Paine as head coach. And with Smith’s arrival, the team will now have two big Aussie names. Smith’s inclusion adds serious firepower to Sialkot’s batting lineup and raises expectations for PSL 2026.

The 36-year-old had a stellar BBL 2025-26, with him scoring 299 runs in six matches at a strike rate of 167.97, including a century and two fifties, helping Sydney Sixers reach the final. They ultimately fell short of the title glory, with Perth Scorchers winning the BBL for a record sixth time.

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