The PSL conducted its first-ever player auction at the Expo Centre on Wednesday. All eight franchises completed their squads for the 11th edition, set to run from March 26 to May 3.
The auction replaced the previous draft system used since the league’s inception in 2016. This change coincides with the PSL expansion to eight teams, including the new Sialkot Stallionz and Hyderabad Houston Kingsmen.
Existing franchises were allowed to retain only four core players before the auction. Rawalpindi made the highest bid, securing Naseem Shah for PKR 86.5 million. Islamabad United signed Faheem Ashraf for PKR 85 million.
Karachi Kings acquired David Warner for PKR 79 million, while Lahore Qalandars re-signed Fakhar Zaman for PKR 79.5 million and Haris Rauf for PKR 76 million. Quetta Gladiators brought back Rilee Rossouw for PKR 55.5 million and signed Tom Curran. Peshawar Zalmi added Michael Bracewell and Kusal Mendis to their roster.
Among new franchises, Sialkot Stallionz signed Sahibzada Farhan and secured Steve Smith as a direct signing. Hyderabad Houston Kingsmen included Saim Ayub along with several domestic and overseas players.
The auction enabled teams to build balanced squads with a mix of local and international talent. Officials said the new system allows franchises to strategize more efficiently and create competitive squads for the upcoming PSL season.
Notable squad signings include Lahore Qalandars’ Shaheen Shah Afridi, Abdullah Shafique, and Mustafizur Rahman. Karachi Kings finalized Moeen Ali alongside Hasan Ali and Abbas Afridi. Islamabad United retained Shadab Khan and Devon Conway, while Rawalpindi strengthened its lineup with Mohammad Rizwan, Daryl Mitchell, and Mohammad Amir.
Franchises are now preparing for the expanded 11th PSL season. Teams aim to compete vigorously for the title, with all eyes on the first matches scheduled in late March. Fans can expect high-quality cricket with star players representing each city.
In other news read more about PSL 2026 Player Auction Kicks Off with High-Profile Bids and Surprise
The PSL continues to grow as a premier cricket tournament, offering excitement for local and international audiences alike. The auction sets the stage for a thrilling season with strong teams ready to battle for the championship.
