HBL PSL 11 Retentions: Teams Secure Their Core Ahead of the Draft

PSL Franchises Lock in Core Players Ahead of HBL PSL 11

As preparations for HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 gather momentum, franchises have made decisive moves by retaining their key players. Under the PSL retention policy, each team was allowed to retain one player from each category, ensuring a balanced squad structure while maintaining team identity. The retentions highlight long-term planning, faith in local talent, and trust in match-winners who have delivered in pressure situations.

Quetta Gladiators have shown strong confidence in their emerging core. They retained mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed in the Platinum category, underlining his growing importance as a strike bowler. In Diamond, Quetta kept Usman Tariq, while young batter Hassan Nawaz was retained in Gold. Promising youngster Shamyl Hussain continues with the franchise in the Emerging category, reflecting Quetta’s focus on youth development.

Islamabad United, one of the most consistent PSL teams, retained their captain and all-rounder Shadab Khan in the Platinum category. His leadership and all-round abilities remain central to Islamabad’s plans. Pace bowler Salman Irshad was retained in Gold, rewarding his impactful performances, while overseas all-rounder Andrew Gouse was kept in the Silver category to add depth to the squad.

Lahore Qalandars, the defending champions in recent seasons, have once again built around their star players. Captain Shaheen Shah Afridi was the obvious choice for Platinum, continuing his long association with the franchise. Reliable batter Abdullah Shafique was retained in Diamond, while Zimbabwean all-rounder Sikandar Raza remains in Gold. Lahore also retained M. Naeem in the Emerging category, showing trust in domestic talent.

Peshawar Zalmi stayed loyal to their marquee player Babar Azam, retaining him in the Platinum category as the face of the franchise. Rising spinner Sufiyan Muqeem earned retention in Diamond, while power-hitter Abdul Samad was kept in Gold. Young fast bowler Ali Raza continues with Zalmi in the Emerging category, signaling investment in future stars.

Karachi Kings finalized a well-balanced retention list, starting with experienced pacer Hasan Ali in the Platinum category. They retained Abbas Afridi in Diamond after his impressive performances, while middle-order all-rounder Khushdil Shah stays in Gold. Wicketkeeper-batter Saad Baig was retained in the Emerging category, highlighting Karachi’s intent to groom young talent.

With these retentions, the franchises have secured their foundations ahead of the PSL 11 draft. The mix of star players, proven performers, and emerging talent sets the stage for an exciting season, as teams now look to strengthen their squads and challenge for the coveted PSL trophy. 🏏🔥