The eagerly anticipated Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 Draft is officially underway in Lahore, with team representatives, players, and cricket enthusiasts all gathered at Hazuri Bagh near the Shahi Qila in Lahore. This event is a significant milestone for the league as franchises aim to strengthen their squads with new talent and seasoned players for an action-packed season ahead.

As part of the draft process, players are selected from different categories: Platinum, Diamond, and Gold. The selections made today promise to elevate the quality of competition and showcase international and local cricketing talent. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the players chosen across all categories and the major figures involved in the process.

Franchise Representatives at the PSL 10 Draft

The draft process is being overseen by franchise owners and managers. Several key figures are present at the event, with many influential players and coaches participating in the selection process. Here are the team representatives for each PSL franchise:

  1. Lahore Qalandars: Led by Aatif Rana, Sameen Rana, and the dynamic Shaheen Shah Afridi, Lahore Qalandars are all set to secure key international and local players for their squad.
  2. Karachi Kings: The Karachi Kings’ selection team is present to pick some exciting new talent.
  3. Quetta Gladiators: The team management of Quetta Gladiators is actively involved in the draft process, aiming to build a robust team for the upcoming season.
  4. Peshawar Zalmi: Peshawar Zalmi’s representatives are busy finalizing picks to ensure a strong performance for the team in PSL 10.
  5. Multan Sultans: The Multan Sultans are also present with their management, focusing on building a powerful team.
  6. Islamabad United: Islamabad United’s management team is present, aiming to finalize picks for the new season and ensure they remain competitive.

Platinum Category Selections

The Platinum Category features the top-tier players who are expected to make the most significant impact in the league. The following selections have been made by each franchise:

  1. Lahore Qalandars: Daryl Mitchell – The all-rounder from New Zealand is known for his aggressive batting and useful bowling. His addition strengthens Lahore’s batting depth and provides an experienced player for key moments.
  2. Karachi Kings: David Warner – The explosive Australian batter brings his exceptional international experience and top-order firepower to Karachi Kings, a major boost for the team.
  3. Quetta Gladiators: Tom Kohler-Cadmore and Finn Allen – Both talented openers, Kohler-Cadmore and Allen, will provide the Gladiators with aggressive starts and strong batting foundations.
  4. Peshawar Zalmi: Tom Kohler-Cadmore (via Right to Match) – Kohler-Cadmore’s explosive batting was secured by Zalmi through the Right to Match (RTM) option, solidifying their opening pair.
  5. Multan Sultans: Michael Bracewell – The versatile all-rounder from New Zealand is known for his aggressive batting and handy spin bowling, providing balance to the team.
  6. Islamabad United: Matthew Short – The Australian all-rounder brings versatility with his batting, capable of anchoring the innings as well as providing big hits when required.

Diamond Category Selections

The Diamond Category includes highly skilled players who bring depth and experience to the squad. The following selections were made:

  1. Karachi Kings: Khushdil Shah – An explosive all-rounder from Pakistan, Khushdil Shah adds both power-hitting and handy spin bowling, a valuable asset for the Kings.
  2. Peshawar Zalmi: Carbon Bosh – The South African all-rounder brings much-needed experience and a reliable batting and bowling option for Zalmi.
  3. Islamabad United: Jason Holder – Holder, one of the most experienced all-rounders in world cricket, provides stability in both batting and bowling departments.
  4. Lahore Qalandars: Kusal Perera – Sri Lanka’s wicketkeeper-batter Perera joins Lahore Qalandars, bringing his explosive batting style and excellent wicketkeeping skills to the team.
  5. Peshawar Zalmi: Mohammad Ali – The young fast bowler has been added to the squad, strengthening Peshawar’s bowling attack.

Gold Category Selections

The Gold Category consists of talented players who have the potential to make a significant impact, offering franchises additional flexibility in their team compositions:

  1. Peshawar Zalmi: Abdul Samad – The young Pakistani batter, selected via Wild Card, is known for his explosive hitting capabilities, providing Zalmi with an aggressive middle-order option.
  2. Islamabad United: Ben Cutting – The Australian all-rounder is a powerful hitter with experience in international cricket. His addition to Islamabad United offers a strong option for both batting and bowling

Ongoing Draft Process

The draft is ongoing, and franchises continue to secure their preferred players, ensuring that their squads are balanced and ready for the challenges of PSL 10. As the draft progresses, more players will be selected, and updates will follow on additional picks and team strategies

The PSL 10 draft has set the stage for another thrilling season of Pakistan’s premier T20 cricket league. With an exciting mix of seasoned international players and young talent, the upcoming season promises to deliver intense competition and unforgettable cricket moments. Fans can look forward to seeing some of the best cricketers from around the world in action, representing their teams in the high-stakes matches of PSL 10