The Pakistan Super League is introducing a player auction model for its 11th season, marking a significant departure from the traditional draft system that has been in place since the league’s inception. This landmark shift comes alongside the exciting addition of two new franchises from Hyderabad and Sialkot, expanding the competitive landscape.
The Pakistan Cricket Board announced this strategic decision on Monday, stating that the move aims to provide players with greater earning opportunities. According to PCB’s statement, the League’s continued growth and commitment to innovation drove this fundamental change in player acquisition.
PSL 2026 New Retention and Auction Rules
Under the revamped structure, each franchise will be permitted to retain a maximum of four players, with the restriction of one player per category. The provisions for mentors, brand ambassadors, and the Right to Match (RTM) option have been eliminated for PSL 11. Newly inducted teams from Hyderabad and Sialkot will be allowed to select and retain four players from the available pool before the main auction commences.
Adding to the strategic flexibility, franchises will also be granted one direct signing of a foreign player who did not participate in PSL 10, enabling teams to infuse fresh international talent into their squads. The player salary purse has been substantially increased to USD 1.6 million per franchise, reflecting the League’s ambitious trajectory.
PSL Season 11 Launch Details
The 11th edition is scheduled to commence on March 26, 2026, with Faisalabad joining as an additional host venue. Cricket enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly anticipating the auction spectacle, which promises intense bidding wars and the opportunity to see marquee international stars joining Pakistan’s premier T20 competition, one of the biggest cricket leagues in the world, in what could be a game-changing season. in what could be a game-changing season.
