The HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) is set to enter a historic new phase as franchises finalize their player retentions ahead of the league’s first-ever player auction, scheduled for February 11. With the expansion of the tournament to eight teams, PSL 11 promises heightened competition, fresh strategies, and unpredictable outcomes.
Under the new auction system, each franchise has been allocated a purse of PKR 450 million and was permitted to retain a maximum of four players before entering the auction. The retained players carry fixed deduction values from the total budget, allowing teams to plan their bidding strategies accordingly.
Several franchises chose to secure their marquee stars. Peshawar Zalmi retained former Pakistan captain Babar Azam, Lahore Qalandars kept pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi, while Islamabad United opted to retain all-rounder Shadab Khan, reinforcing their core squads ahead of the auction.
However, Multan Sultans emerged as the most talked-about franchise after deciding not to retain a single player, signaling a complete rebuild and an aggressive approach toward the auction. The bold move has sparked widespread discussion among fans and analysts, who are eager to see how Multan reshapes its squad from scratch.
Social media platforms have been buzzing with reactions, especially over high-profile releases such as Saim Ayub, while fans also questioned certain pricing brackets and retention values. The buzz reflects the growing excitement surrounding the new auction-based format.
Adding further intrigue to PSL 11 is the introduction of new franchises, including Sialkot Stallionz and Hyderabad, who will enter the auction with fresh rosters and no legacy constraints. Their participation is expected to intensify bidding wars and disrupt established team dynamics.
With a mix of retained superstars, high-profile free agents, and brand-new teams, the PSL’s first auction is set to redefine team-building in Pakistan’s premier T20 league. Fans can expect dramatic bidding, surprise picks, and a thrilling build-up to what could be the most competitive PSL season yet.
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