The Pakistan Super League entered a new chapter with its first-ever auction format, replacing the traditional draft system, as franchises engaged in aggressive bidding to build squads for PSL 11.
The headline moment came when Pakistan pacer Naseem Shah was signed by Team Rawalpindi for PKR 8.65 crore, making him one of the most expensive acquisitions of the opening session. The deal underlined Rawalpindi’s strategy to strengthen its pace attack ahead of the March season.
High-profile bids dominate opening rounds
The auction featured 261 shortlisted players from more than 800 registrants, with eight franchises operating within purse limits ranging from PKR 45 crore to PKR 50.5 crore, adjusted after pre-auction retentions.
Other major signings included:
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Faheem Ashraf joining Islamabad United for PKR 8.5 crore.
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David Warner secured by Karachi Kings for PKR 7.9 crore.
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Haris Rauf retained by Lahore Qalandars for PKR 7.6 crore.
Pre-auction retentions also shaped early strategies, with Babar Azam staying with Peshawar Zalmi and Shaheen Shah Afridi continuing as a core player for Lahore Qalandars.
Auction replaces draft format
PSL 11 marks the first time the league has adopted an auction system, allowing franchises more flexibility in player acquisition and squad composition. The competitive bidding reflected the league’s commercial expansion and growing market confidence.
With marquee signings confirmed and squads taking shape, PSL 11 is set for an action-packed March, signaling a strategic shift in how teams are constructed in Pakistan’s premier T20 competition.
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