Pakistan Super League considers ‘Drauction’ model ahead of 11th season
The PSL is considering a change to its player recruitment system ahead of its 11th season by introducing a hybrid model termed a ‘drauction,’ which would combine elements of both draft and auction.
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The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is considering a significant change to its player recruitment system ahead of its 11th season by introducing a hybrid model termed a ‘drauction,’ which would combine elements of both a draft and an auction. Since its inception, the PSL has followed a draft-based system for its first ten seasons. However, with the league set to expand this year by adding two new franchises from Hyderabad and Sialkot, the idea of moving away from the traditional draft has gained momentum.
According to ESPNcricinfo, the PSL’s governing council met on Friday to discuss the proposed change but failed to reach a final decision. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), in an official statement, referred to the proposed recruitment mechanism as a ‘drauction,’ highlighting the possibility of blending both systems to accommodate the league’s evolving structure.
The meeting was attended by representatives of all eight franchises, with the PCB acting on behalf of Multan Sultans. Due to differing opinions among stakeholders, the meeting was adjourned and a working group was formed to further deliberate on the issue, with hopes of arriving at a decision over the weekend.
PSL expands to eight teams as Sialkot, Hyderabad fetch bids
The inclusion of two new teams has complicated discussions around player retention and squad balance. On ensuring competitive parity across all franchises while giving new teams a fair chance to build strong squads has emerged as a key concern. It is understood that the incoming franchises are advocating for minimal player retentions, allowing them access to a larger and more competitive player pool.
The new teams are also reportedly the strongest proponents of switching to a full auction model, believing it would offer greater flexibility and fairness. In contrast, most of the existing franchises are understood to prefer retaining the draft system, which they believe has helped maintain balance and stability within the league.
"During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on various matters including the schedule of the PSL, player retentions, adoption of the player auction or a unique combination of auction and draft termed as 'drauction' and the option of opening direct signings. It was decided that the PSL will kick off on Thursday, 26 March as the fans, players and stakeholders look forward to entering the New Era of the league,” the official statement read as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
"The meeting was adjourned with the constitution of a working group to meet on Saturday to deliberate further on agenda items, where after the governing council meeting will be reconvened immediately as necessary,” it added.
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