LAHORE: The HBL Pakistan Super League has announced a series of landmark developments ahead of its 11th edition, reinforcing the League’s continued growth, competitiveness, and commitment to innovation.
In a historic move after a decade of success, the HBL Pakistan Super League (HBL-PSL-11) will transition to a Player Auction Model, replacing the traditional Player Draft system. This strategic shift is aimed at enhancing competitive balance, increasing transparency, and providing players’ greater earning opportunities.
Under the revised player acquisition framework, each franchise may retain a maximum of four players, limited to one player per category. Previously, every franchise was allowed to retain 8 players from their squad including a Mentor, a Brand Ambassador and a Right to Match Option to retain a 9th player in the Player Draft.
The rules pertaining to Mentors, Brand Ambassadors and RTM have been abolished for HBL-PSL-11.
Moreover, newly inducted teams will be allowed to select and retain four players from the available player pool before the Player Auction. Each franchise will also be allowed one direct signing of a foreign player who did not feature in HBL PSL X, enabling teams to strategically strengthen their squads with fresh international talent.
Further strengthening the League’s commercial and competitive outlook, the player salary purse has been increased to USD 1.6 million per franchise, underscoring HBL PSL’s commitment to rewarding player performance and attracting elite domestic and international cricketers. These progressive measures reflect the League’s strategic trajectory and evolution, while remaining firmly rooted in its mission to promote cricketing excellence, fan engagement, and attaining unprecedented heights.
HBL-PSL-11 will officially commence on 26th March 2026. Faisalabad has been added an additional venue for hosting the League’s matches, marking the city’s return to spotlight and further expanding the League’s national footprint.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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