PSL copies IPL! Pakistan Super League ditches draft, introduces Auction model to stay relevant

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is set for a massive shake-up as the tournament gears up for its 11th season, with the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) latest bold decisions that could completely change how teams are built and how players earn from the 2026 season.

PSL set for biggest change ever as auction system replaces draft

After ten successful seasons, the Pakistan Super League has decided to move away from the traditional player draft system as the league will follow a player auction model for the first time in its history.

The PCB has taken this decision to make the competition more balanced, the process more open, and to give players a better chance to earn more money based on their value.

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In an official media release, the PCB stated, “In a historic move after a decade of success, the HBL Pakistan Super League (HBL PSL 11) will transition to a Player Auction Model, replacing the traditional Player Draft system. This strategic shift is aimed at enhancing competitive balance, increasing transparency, and providing players greater earning opportunities.”

Auction model and new rules in Pakistan Super League

The player retention rules have been changed in a big way in the Pakistan Super League. Each franchise will now be allowed to retain only four players before the auction, and only one player can be kept from each category for the next edition of the tournament.

Earlier, teams could retain up to eight players, along with extra roles like mentor and brand ambassador, and they also had the Right to Match Option to keep an additional player in the Player Draft. All of these options have now been completely removed for PSL 11.

The PSL is all set to have two new franchises, and for that they have already planned a rule. Any newly added franchise will be allowed to pick and retain four players from the available player pool before the auction begins so they can start the season on equal footing with the other teams.

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There is also a fresh option for all the teams to strengthen their squads. Every franchise will be allowed one direct signing of a foreign player who did not play in the last edition of the league. This will help teams bring in new international faces and add extra excitement for fans.

Player purse increased, and Faisalabad returns to the PSL map

Additionally, the salary purse for each franchise has also been increased to 1.6 million US dollars. This shows the Pakistan Super League’s focus on rewarding players better and attracting top-quality local and overseas cricketers, increasing fan interest, and taking the league to new levels.

PSL 2026 will kick off on 26 March, and the PCB confirmed that Faisalabad has been added as a new venue for matches, bringing top-level cricket back to the city.

The PCB stated, “Faisalabad has been added as an additional venue for hosting the League’s matches, marking the city’s return to the spotlight and further expanding the League’s national footprint. Additional details regarding the Player Auction process, schedule, and operational guidelines will be shared in due course.”