PSL Introduces Player Auction System, Increases Franchise Purse Ahead of 11th Season

The Pakistan Cricket Board announced major structural reforms to the Pakistan Super League (PSL), replacing the draft system with a player auction and increasing the franchise purse ahead of the 11th edition

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced major structural reforms in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), with a player auction system set to replace the draft format that had been in place since the tournament’s launch in 2016.

As part of the changes, the total purse available to each franchise has been increased to USD 1.6 million from the earlier USD 1.3 million for the player auction. The PCB said the move is aimed at strengthening the league’s competitiveness and ensuring better financial opportunities for players.

PSL CEO Salman Naseer said the reforms introduced ahead of the league’s 11th edition would support the PSL’s long-term growth and innovation.

“The PSL will now transition from a draft to players auction system which should increase transparency and enhance the competitive balance of teams in the league,” Naseer said.

He added that the new structure would also benefit players financially. He said it will also provide players greater earning opportunities.

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Under the revised rules, each franchise will be allowed to retain a maximum of four players, with only one player permitted per category. Previously, franchises could retain up to eight players from their squads, along with provisions for a mentor, a brand ambassador, and a right-to-match option to retain a ninth player during the draft.

No Right-to-match Option

The PCB has now abolished the hiring of mentors, brand ambassadors, and the right-to-match option as part of the overhaul.

Naseer further stated that the two new teams, Hyderabad and Sialkot, will be given a special allowance before the auction.

Naseer said that both the new teams, Hyderabad and Sialkot, will be allowed to select four players from the available player pool before the player auction.

In another key change, franchises will also be permitted one direct signing of a foreign player who did not feature in PSL 10. This move is expected to help teams bring in fresh international talent and strengthen their squads strategically.

The PCB confirmed that PSL 11 is scheduled to begin on March 26, with Faisalabad added to the list of host venues for the upcoming season.