Marnus Labuschagne has been confirmed as the captain of Hyderabad Kingsmen ahead of the Pakistan Super League 2026 season. The Australian batter, who joined the franchise as a direct signing, becomes the third player from his country to be handed leadership duties in the tournament this year, following David Warner’s appointment at Karachi Kings and Ashton Turner’s role with Multan Sultans.
Despite his new responsibility, Labuschagne has limited experience as a T20 captain and is not a regular feature in the shortest format. He has represented his national side in only one T20I and has played just four T20 matches since the end of July 2024, all for Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash League. Primarily known as a top-order batter, he also contributes with occasional off spin or medium pace and has claimed 40 wickets across 59 T20 appearances.
Hyderabad Kingsmen, one of the two new franchises introduced this season, were the final team to formally announce their skipper. The squad lacked an obvious candidate with extensive T20 captaincy credentials. Although notable names such as Glenn Maxwell, Kusal Perera and Saim Ayub were signed, Labuschagne — the first player to be confirmed through direct recruitment — was ultimately chosen to lead the side.
He will work closely with fellow Australian Jason Gillespie, who has taken charge as head coach of the franchise and previously served as Pakistan’s Test coach. The Kingsmen’s support staff also includes former Pakistan coach Grant Bradburn, who has been appointed as fielding coach.
The team will open their PSL campaign in the tournament’s first match, facing three-time champions Lahore Qalandars at the Gaddafi Stadium on March 26.
