LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to take the Pakistan Super League (PSL)’s draft to Balochistan for the first time in league’s history.
As per the announcement, the draft will take place in Gwadar, the port city of Pakistan’s biggest province, on January 11, 2025.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated, "Gwadar, with its stunning coastal scenery and strategic significance, is the heart of Pakistan's economic future. By hosting the HBL PSL Player Draft here, we aim to highlight its cultural and economic importance while celebrating cricket, a sport that unites our nation. I look forward to welcoming all franchises and stakeholders to the beautiful city of Gwadar on January 11 as we take a significant step towards the 10th edition of Pakistan’s biggest sporting event."
The decision is a part of PCB's plan to expand the league beyond four major cities and to inspire the local community and encourage the younger generation of this region to adopt cricket as a professional sport.
HBL PSL Chief Executive Officer Salman Naseer expressed his excitement, saying, "I am proud to announce Gwadar as the host city for the HBL PSL Player Draft. This initiative reflects our commitment to extending the league’s reach across Pakistan and showcasing the country’s beauty to the world. HBL PSL is more than just a cricket league for our passionate fans; it represents Pakistan’s spirit, talent, and charm. Hosting the draft in Gwadar is a step towards inspiring young cricketers in Balochistan and beyond to dream big."
However, the announcement for player relegation and retention is scheduled for the end of December.
Remember, the registration window for the overseas players to offer their availability for the PSL 10, has already been opened.
Whereas, the cricket board has also announced the category renewals of 87 local players for the upcoming edition of the marquee league, which saw Karachi Kings’ Hasan Ali, alongside Quetta Gladiators’ Mohammad Amir, Peshawar Zalmi’s Saim Ayub and Multan Sultans’ Usama Mir being promoted to the platinum category.
The four players join Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan Naseem Shah (Islamabad United), Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Shaheen Shah Afridi (Lahore Qalandars), Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Rizwan (Multan Sultans), Babar Azam (Peshawar Zalmi), who have all been retained in the premium category.
The Diamond category features a total of 16 players, including former Gladiators captain Sarfaraz Ahmed, veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik and Test skipper Shan Masood.
Sohail Imran Sohail Imran is a senior reporter for Geo News.
