LAHORE: The 11th edition of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) player auction began on Wednesday at Lahore’s Expo Centre, marking the first time the event was held in the city.
This year’s auction introduces a new system. Unlike previous seasons, where players were selected through a draft, franchises will acquire players via open bidding. The move aims to increase excitement and transparency in the PSL.
Multan Sultans will compete under new ownership and a new name, “Rawalpindi,” in the upcoming tournament.
In the first lot of all-rounders, Pakistani star Faheem Ashraf was purchased by Islamabad United for Rs85 million. Other notable Pakistani all-rounders, including Imad Wasim, Hussain Talat, and Danish Aziz, went unsold, surprising many fans.
The second lot featured international players. David Warner was acquired by Karachi Kings for Rs79 million, while former South African all-rounder Rilee Rossouw joined Quetta Gladiators for Rs55.5 million. Jahanzaib Sultan was picked by Sialkot Stallions for Rs6 million. Several players, including Colin Munro and Saud Shakeel, remained unsold.
In the third lot, Haris Rauf returned to Lahore Qalandars for Rs76 million, while Mohammad Ali was acquired by Hyderabad for Rs21.5 million. England’s Chris Jordan remained unsold, highlighting the competitive nature of the auction.
During the event, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi presented all franchise owners with custom T-shirts celebrating Pakistan’s participation in the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup in Markhor edition, adding a ceremonial touch to the PSL auction.
Experts say the auction format is likely to change team strategies in the PSL. Open bidding allows franchises to target specific players while creating more excitement for fans.
The PSL auction continues to generate buzz, with cricket enthusiasts eagerly watching which stars will join their favorite teams. This new approach sets the stage for a thrilling season ahead.
In other news read more about Multan Sultans Sold for Rs2.45 Billion in 10-Year PSL Deal
This is a developing story, and updates will follow as more player acquisitions are announced.
