Islamabad: Peshawar Zalmi have confirmed Babar Azam as their captain ahead of the 11th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) while opener Saim Ayub has been released due to retention rules.
Both Babar and Saim fall in the PSL’s Platinum category but regulations allow franchises to retain only one player from each category. Zalmi opted to retain Babar prioritizing his leadership and experience, leaving Saim available for the upcoming PSL players auction. This will allow other franchises to bid for the left-handed opener as they look to strengthen their squads.
Franchises are expected to finalize their retained players list on Tuesday following which the PSL 11 auction will take place.
Meanwhile the league’s international profile continues to grow. PSL officials reported a 149 percent increase in international media rights value, reflecting rising global interest. PSL CEO Salman Naseer said the surge demonstrates growing confidence in the tournament and its position among top T20 competitions worldwide.
“The league’s expanding reach and popularity underline its reputation as one of the leading franchise cricket leagues globally Naseer added.
With strong leadership choices and increasing international recognition PSL 11 is set to further consolidate its place as Pakistan’s premier cricketing spectacle.
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