A Historic Venue for a Landmark Event
The Pakistan Super League (PSL) conducted its 10th season players drafting ceremony at the iconic Hazuri Bagh in Lahore on January 13, 2025. The historic location, nestled between Lahore Fort and Badshahi Mosque, provided a stunning backdrop, combining Pakistan’s cultural heritage with its love for cricket. All six franchises—Islamabad United, Karachi Kings, Lahore Qalandars, Multan Sultans, Peshawar Zalmi, and Quetta Gladiators—participated to finalize their squads for the upcoming season.
Key Highlights of the Draft
The drafting event witnessed intense planning and exciting picks as teams prepared for the upcoming season, scheduled from April 10 to May 25, 2025. Key highlights include:
- Star International Picks:
- Daryl Mitchell joined Lahore Qalandars, adding all-round capabilities.
- David Warner, the explosive Australian opener, was picked by Karachi Kings.
- Tom Kohler-Cadmore was snapped up by Peshawar Zalmi, enhancing their batting lineup.
- Emerging Talent:
- Several young Pakistani players were selected, showcasing the PSL’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent.
Draft Order
The draft order was as follows:
• Platinum Round 1:
1. Lahore Qalandars
2. Karachi Kings
3. Quetta Gladiators
4. Peshawar Zalmi
5. Multan Sultans
6. Islamabad United
• Subsequent rounds followed a snake format, with the order reversing in each round.
Venue Change and Logistical Success
The draft was initially planned for Gwadar but was shifted to Lahore due to logistical challenges. Despite the change, the event was a grand success, attended by team officials, cricketing legends, and enthusiastic fans.
Challenges Ahead for Players
The PSL’s new April-May schedule overlaps with the English county cricket season, creating potential conflicts for players like Tom Kohler-Cadmore. The England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) restrictions on county-contracted players’ participation in overseas leagues, barring the IPL, add complexity to player availability.
Building Momentum for the Future
This 10th season marks a pivotal point for the PSL, with plans to expand from six to eight teams in 2026. The league continues to grow, attracting global stars and providing a platform for emerging talent, cementing its place among the premier T20 leagues worldwide.
Additional Information
The HBL PSL has announced plans to expand to an eight-team league starting from the 2026 season, introducing two new franchises to the competition.
Conclusion
The PSL Season 10 drafting at Hazuri Bagh set the stage for an exciting season ahead, blending the charm of Pakistan’s heritage with the thrill of competitive cricket. Fans eagerly await the action-packed tournament, which promises to deliver unforgettable moments and showcase the best of cricket.
