The Pakistan Super League (PSL) has officially announced a major overhaul of its administrative and player recruitment structure ahead of the upcoming season, marking one of the biggest changes in the league’s history.
Under the new system, player selection will now take place through an auction instead of the traditional draft, a move aimed at increasing competitiveness among teams and providing players with better earning opportunities.
Key Changes in PSL Structure
According to the announcement by HBL PSL management, several long-standing features of the league have been discontinued. The mentor system, brand ambassador roles, and the “Right to Match” (RTM) rule have all been abolished as part of the restructuring process.
League officials believe that the auction-based model will help create more balanced squads while allowing franchises greater flexibility in team-building strategies.
Auction Rules and Salary Cap
Each PSL franchise will be given a salary cap of $1.6 million to spend during the auction. Ahead of the auction, teams will be allowed to retain up to four players, with the condition that only one player can be retained from each category.
Additionally, every franchise will now have the option to directly sign one international player, provided that the player did not participate in the PSL 2025 edition.
Special Provision for New Teams
The two newly added teams will receive special concessions. Before the auction begins, each new franchise will be allowed to select four players directly, helping them build a competitive core squad from the outset.
PSL Season 11 Schedule and Venues
The 11th edition of HBL PSL will begin on March 26, with matches scheduled across multiple venues. For the first time, Iqbal Stadium Faisalabad will also host PSL matches, expanding the league’s footprint and bringing top-level cricket to more fans across Pakistan.
What This Means for Players and Fans
Cricket analysts believe that despite the removal of several familiar features, the new system will make the league more dynamic, transparent, and financially rewarding for players. Fans can expect more competitive teams, intense auctions, and fresh excitement ahead of the new season.
The PSL’s shift to an auction model signals a bold new era for Pakistan’s premier T20 league as it continues to evolve on the global cricket stage
