PSL 12 Retention Rules: Teams Can Keep Seven Players Under New Auction Policy

Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchises will have the option to retain up to seven players for the upcoming 12th edition of the tournament, according to the latest regulations approved by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

However, teams choosing to exercise their maximum retention allowance will be required to release one player from the highest price category of the previous auction into the general player pool.

The decision was unanimously approved by all eight PSL franchises during a tournament operations workshop held at Gaddafi Stadium on Thursday.

The new regulations come ahead of the PSL 12 player auction, which is scheduled to take place on January 23, 2027.

Retention Deadline Set for January 13

Under the updated policy, franchises must finalise their player retention decisions by January 13, giving them ten days before the auction to complete their squad planning.

The deadline has been scheduled to allow teams to evaluate performances in the National T20 Silver and ongoing National T20 Gold competitions before deciding which players to retain.

According to the PCB, the arrangement is intended to strengthen the connection between domestic cricket and the PSL by giving emerging and in-form players an opportunity to attract franchise interest.

Strong performances in domestic competitions could therefore influence franchise decisions during the retention and auction process.

PSL 12 Auction Salary Cap Announced

The PCB has also outlined the financial framework for the upcoming auction.

Each franchise will operate under a salary cap of Rs45 crore. However, the limit will increase to Rs50.5 crore for teams that make a direct signing for PSL 12, retain their previous season’s direct signing, or choose both options.

Additionally, every franchise will be required to spend at least Rs36.5 crore on its squad.

These financial regulations are expected to play an important role in shaping team strategies as franchises balance player retentions, direct signings and auction purchases.

Direct Signing Window Open Until November 23

Franchises will have until November 23, 2026, to complete their direct signings.

Each team will be permitted to sign one marquee player who did not participate in either PSL 10 or PSL 11.

The provision offers franchises an opportunity to strengthen their squads with prominent players before the auction begins.

All Eight Franchises Agree on Auction Regulations

The workshop was chaired by PSL Chief Executive Salman Naseer, with representatives of all eight franchises participating in discussions.

Several important matters were reviewed, including player retention limits, direct signings, trading arrangements, squad sizes and salary caps.

Salman Naseer said the discussions were conducted transparently, with all franchises reaching a unanimous agreement on the auction regulations.

He also highlighted the importance of aligning the retention deadline with domestic cricket competitions, allowing players to demonstrate their abilities before franchise decisions are finalised.

The PCB has indicated that further announcements regarding PSL 12 will be made in the coming weeks as preparations for the next edition continue.