LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has elected to conduct the Pakistan Super League (PSL) draft in Balochistan for the first time in the league’s existence.
The draft is scheduled to occur in Gwadar, the port metropolis of Pakistan’s largest province, on January 11, 2025, as per the announcement.
Mohsin Naqvi, the Chairman of the Pakistan Commercial Bank (PCB), declared that “Gwadar is the core of Pakistan’s economic future due to its strategic importance and breathtaking coastal landscape.” Our objective is to celebrate cricket, a sport that unites our nation, while simultaneously emphasizing its cultural and economic significance by hosting the HBL PSL Player Draft here. I am eager to extend a warm welcome to all franchises and stakeholders in the picturesque city of Gwadar on January 11, as we embark on a significant journey toward the 10th iteration of Pakistan’s most significant sporting event.
The decision is a component of PCB’s strategy to broaden the league beyond four main cities, thereby inspiring the local community and encouraging the younger generation in the region to adopt cricket as a professional sport.
Salman Naseer, the Chief Executive Officer of the HBL PSL, conveyed his enthusiasm by stating, “I am honored to declare Gwadar as the host city for the HBL PSL Player Draft.” This initiative is indicative of our dedication to expanding the league’s influence throughout Pakistan and exhibiting the country’s beauty to the international community. The HBL PSL is not merely a cricket league for our fervent fans; it is a symbol of Pakistan’s character, talent, and allure. Hosting the draft in Gwadar is a significant step toward motivating young cricketers in Balochistan and beyond to pursue their aspirations.
Nevertheless, the announcement regarding player relegation and retention is scheduled for the conclusion of December.
Remember, the registration window for overseas players to indicate their availability for the PSL 10 has already been opened.
The cricket board has also announced the category renewals of 87 local players for the upcoming edition of the marquee league. This includes the promotion of Karachi Kings’ Hasan Ali, Quetta Gladiators’ Mohammad Amir, Peshawar Zalmi’s Saim Ayub, and Multan Sultans’ Usama Mir to the platinum category.
In the premium category, the four players will be joining Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan Naseem Shah (Islamabad United), Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Shaheen Shah Afridi (Lahore Qalandars), Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Rizwan (Multan Sultans), and Babar Azam (Peshawar Zalmi), who have all been retained.
A total of 16 players are included in the Diamond category, including former Gladiators captain Sarfaraz Ahmed, veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik, and Test commander Shan Masood.
