Rawalpindi to Confirm Retentions Within 24 Hours Before PSL 11 Auction

In a major development ahead of the 2026 Pakistan Super League (PSL 11) auction, newly introduced franchise Rawalpindi has been granted the option to retain up to four players from the available pool.

The franchise has just 24 hours to announce its retained players, adding urgency as the league prepares for the Feb. 11 player auction.

This retention option is part of the expanded player recruitment framework introduced for PSL 11, a landmark season that will feature a player auction system for the first time, replacing the traditional draft model.

Under the PSL’s retention policy for this season, each franchise is allowed to secure a maximum of four players, with one player retained in each category: Platinum, Diamond, Gold, and Silver/Emerging.

Once teams submit their retention lists, all unretained players will be released back into the auction pool, where they can be selected by any other franchise.

The revised system is aimed at improving competitive balance and transparency, while also creating greater earning opportunities for players across all categories.

Rawalpindi’s entry into the league follows Walee Technologies record-breaking purchase of the Multan Sultans franchise rights for Rs. 245 crore.

The new owners opted to relocate and rebrand the team as Rawalpindi, officially ending Multan’s journey in the PSL and establishing a fresh identity for cricket fans in the twin cities.

The move comes as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) pushes forward with a strategic expansion of the league. PSL 11, scheduled to begin on March 26, will feature an eight-team format, including the newly added Sialkot Stallionz and Hyderabad Houston Kingsmen.

As the retention deadline approaches, Rawalpindi’s final selections are expected to shape the franchise’s core squad and will be closely watched by fans and analysts.

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