Pakistan Cricket Board announces shift to PSL XI auction, replacing draft system to enhance transparency and player earnings, starting 26 March in expanded venues including Faisalabad.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unveiled major reforms for the Pakistan Super League’s 11th edition, introducing the PSL XI auction to replace the longstanding draft system. Announced on Monday, 19 January 2026, this change aims to boost competitive balance and provide greater opportunities for players. The league will commence on 26 March 2026, with an increased salary purse of USD 1.6 million per franchise.
This transition to the PSL auction model marks a significant evolution for the league, which has grown into a key platform for cricket in South Asia since its inception in 2016. By adopting the PSL player auction, the PCB seeks to align the PSL with global standards, fostering transparency and allowing market forces to determine player values. This could reshape team strategies and elevate the league’s appeal across Pakistan and neighbouring countries, where cricket drives massive fan engagement and economic activity.
PSL Auction Model Details
Under the new PSL auction model, franchises will bid for players in an open auction format, departing from the PSL draft to auction shift that eliminates previous retention complexities. Each team can retain up to four players, restricted to one per category, ensuring a more level playing field.
The PCB statement highlighted that this PSL draft to auction change is “a historic move after a decade of success.” It reinforces the league’s growth and innovation, with the auction designed to enhance earning potential for both domestic and international cricketers.
Franchises gain flexibility through one direct signing of a foreign player absent from PSL X. Newly inducted teams, following the recent expansion, can select and retain four players from the pool prior to the PSL player auction.
The salary purse increase to USD 1.6 million per team underscores the commitment to attracting top talent. This financial uplift positions the PSL XI auction as a lucrative event, potentially drawing higher bids and intensifying competition.
Retention and Category Rules
Retention rules have been streamlined in the PSL auction model. Previously, teams could hold eight players, including mentors and brand ambassadors, plus a right-to-match option. These elements are abolished for PSL XI, simplifying squad building.
Player categories remain structured, with retentions limited to one per tier to prevent dominance by any franchise. This PSL draft to auction adjustment promotes parity, as teams must rebuild rosters through the PSL player auction.
The PCB noted: “This strategic shift is aimed at enhancing competitive balance, increasing transparency, and providing players greater earning opportunities.” Such measures reflect the league’s evolution while maintaining its focus on cricketing excellence.
Venue Expansion and Schedule
PSL XI will feature Faisalabad as a new venue, expanding the league’s footprint in Pakistan. This addition brings matches to more regions, boosting local economies and fan access in South Asia’s cricket heartland.
The season runs from 26 March to an expected conclusion in early May 2026, accommodating 34 matches across multiple cities. The PSL XI auction process, including dates and guidelines, will be detailed soon by the PCB.
Background
The Pakistan Super League launched in 2016 with a draft system, where teams selected players in predetermined orders. This method ensured fairness but limited player agency in negotiations. Over 10 editions, the PSL has produced stars like Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi, contributing to Pakistan’s T20 dominance.
The shift to PSL player auction mirrors models in leagues like the Indian Premier League, where auctions have driven record salaries and global interest. In South Asia, where cricket generates billions in revenue, this PSL auction model could amplify commercial partnerships and broadcasting deals.
Past drafts saw controversies over retentions, prompting the PCB to innovate. The recent team auction on 8 January 2026 added Hyderabad and Sialkot franchises, expanding to eight teams and setting the stage for the PSL XI auction.
This expansion aligns with PCB’s vision to grow the league’s scale, now valued at over USD 100 million annually in rights and sponsorships. The PSL draft to auction transition addresses calls for modernisation from stakeholders, enhancing the product’s viability in a competitive sports market.
What’s Next
As preparations advance, franchises will finalise retentions ahead of the PSL XI auction. The event promises high-stakes bidding, with top players like international stars potentially fetching premium prices under the new PSL auction model.
The PCB will release auction schedules and operational rules imminently. This forward step could influence player movements and team compositions, heightening anticipation for the season opener on 26 March 2026.
In conclusion, the PSL XI auction represents a pivotal reform, poised to elevate the league’s stature and deliver thrilling cricket to fans across South Asia.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, January 20th, 2026
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