Khul Ke Khel

"Khul Ke Khel" is the official anthem of the 2024 Pakistan Super League, the ninth season of Pakistan Super League. Written and produced by Ali Zafar, it is sung by him and Aima Baig.

Background
Ali Zafar had continuously been a part of the league thrice since its inaugural till 2018. However, after facing harassment allegations by Meesha Shafi in 2018, he could not be the part officially again despite not being proven guilty by the law.

In mid-January 2024, it was reported that Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had contacted Zafar to return this year for the anthem. He started working on three songs in November 2023 before one got finalized into planning phase. However, his contract was pulled when some franchises objected that his involvement would tarnish the league's image. Zafar took his X social handle for an audience poll asking the same, which sparked further speculations.

However, days after then PCB chairman Zaka Ashraf resigned, Aima Baig shared the news on 1 February through her Instagram handle that she signed in along with Zafar, and the anthem title was officially revealed on 4 February with hashtag #KhulKeKhel.

While Baig has performed two consecutive title anthems before in 2021 and 2022, she has been a part of the league's multiple ceremonies since 2018.

Release
The anthem was released on 14 February 2024 across multiple social media platforms. Within two days, it topped on YouTube Music in Pakistan.

Opening ceremony
Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, hosted its first opening ceremony for the league on 17 February 2024. Natasha Baig opened with the Leo Twins to perform "Qaumi Taranah", followed by a laser lighting display. Afterwards, Arif Lohar performed with his sons, and then Noori performed. Then, Zafar performed on all his previous anthems, followed by his collaboration with Baig for the current title anthem. The ceremony closed with the fireworks.

Reception
The anthem received mixed reception, with people comparing it with "Ab Khel Jamay Ga" – an anthem that became a symbol for the league. Manahil Tahira wrote in The Express Tribune that Zafar's latest anthem may not be new due the similar "melodic structure", which may "evoke nostalgia for whom 7 years is a long time" and may be "boredom for those who remember". Samaa TV noted that with Zafar's "signature energy" and Baig's "captivating vocals", the anthem "captures the spirit of cricket and the passion of Pakistani fans". Ameena Amin wrote for Startup Pakistan that the anthem's "upbeat tempo", "engaging lyrics", and "dynamic melody" sets an "electrifying cricket season".

Soon after anthem's release, hashtag #KingIsBack was trending on X, with some people referring Zafar as the king of the cricket anthems, while others referring to Imran Khan.