A debate is quietly building ahead of PSL 11, with three franchises formally backing a shift to a player auction system instead of the traditional draft. The proposal has added a new layer of discussion as planning for the next season begins.
According to sources close to league discussions, Karachi Kings, Islamabad United, and Quetta Gladiators have conveyed their preference to Pakistan Super League officials, arguing that an auction could create a more balanced and competitive player selection process.
Why These Teams Want an Auction
The franchises supporting an auction believe the current draft format favors teams that secure earlier picks. In their view, this often limits flexibility and makes it harder to target specific players, especially when multiple teams are interested in the same names.
They feel an auction would:
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Allow fair competition for top players
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Reduce the advantage of early draft positions
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Give teams more control over squad building
There are also operational concerns being raised. Franchises have reportedly asked for clearer rules around direct signings, including how many players can be signed this way and who finalizes player categories. Some teams want franchise input before categories are locked.
Not All Teams Agree
The idea does not have unanimous support. Lahore Qalandars are understood to prefer keeping the draft system, which they believe maintains structure and cost control. Meanwhile, Peshawar Zalmi have not publicly shared a position so far.
This split suggests that any major change would require careful negotiation among stakeholders.
What Happens Next
Discussions are ongoing within franchise circles, but PSL management has yet to issue an official response. No decision has been made on whether PSL 11 will continue with the draft or experiment with an auction model.
League officials are expected to review franchise feedback before finalizing player recruitment rules for the upcoming season.
Why This Matters
If adopted, an auction would mark one of the biggest structural changes in PSL history. It could reshape how teams plan budgets, retain players, and approach long-term squad development.
For now, the draft remains in place—but with multiple teams pushing for change, the conversation around PSL 11 is clearly far from settled.
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