The Pakistan Super League (PSL) has announced significant changes to its administrative and player selection structure for the upcoming 11th edition. Instead of the traditional player draft, franchises will now acquire players through an auction system.
This new approach is expected to make team compositions more balanced while offering players better earning opportunities. The change aims to enhance competitiveness and give all teams a fair chance to build strong squads.
Retention Rules for Franchises
Ahead of the auction, each PSL franchise is allowed to retain up to four players, with a maximum of one player per category. This gives teams the chance to secure key performers while maintaining competitive parity across the league.
For the two new franchises entering the league, the rules are similar: they can also select four players each before the auction, allowing them to form a strong core squad from the start.
Direct Signings and International Players
Franchises will have the opportunity to directly sign one international player ahead of the auction. However, eligibility for direct signing requires that the player did not participate in the 2025 edition of the PSL. This rule is designed to encourage the inclusion of fresh international talent and maintain excitement around player selections.
Salary Cap and Auction Details
Each team’s salary cap for the auction has been set at $1.6 million, ensuring that spending remains controlled while allowing teams to compete for top talent. The auction system is expected to create strategic bidding wars, giving players a chance to earn more while keeping the league engaging for fans.
PSL 11 Schedule and Venues
The 11th edition of the PSL is scheduled to begin on March 26, 2026. In addition to major stadiums, some matches will be hosted at Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad, expanding the league’s reach and bringing the excitement of PSL cricket to more cities.
The shift to an auction-based player selection, combined with retention and direct signing rules, marks a new era for the PSL, promising a more competitive and entertaining season for fans and players alike.
