Rawalpindi Reveal PSL 11 Retentions as Teams Prepare for Auction
Rawalpindi has officially announced its four retained players ahead of the Pakistan Super League (PSL 11) 2026 player auction, marking a major step as the franchise prepares for its first season under a new identity. The confirmation came just hours before the February 11 PSL 11 auction deadline, giving fans clarity about the team’s core lineup.
The announcement has created excitement among cricket fans, especially as PSL 11 introduces a full auction system for the first time in league history, replacing the traditional draft format.
This article provides complete details about Rawalpindi retained players PSL 11, the new auction system, franchise ownership changes, team strategy, and what fans can expect in the 2026 season.
Rawalpindi Retained Players List for PSL 11
Under the revised PSL 11 retention policy, each franchise was allowed to retain up to four players — one in each category — before entering the open auction.
Rawalpindi confirmed the following players:
1. Muhammad Rizwan – Platinum Category (Rs. 56 million)
Muhammad Rizwan has been retained in the Platinum category. He is one of Pakistan’s most consistent wicketkeeper-batsmen and a proven leader in T20 cricket.
His retention signals that Rawalpindi wants strong leadership and top-order stability.
2. Sam Billings – Diamond Category (Rs. 30.8 million)
England’s Sam Billings brings international experience and aggressive middle-order batting. His versatility as a wicketkeeper-batsman makes him an important asset.
3. Zaman Khan – Gold Category (Rs. 11.2 million)
Zaman Khan is known for his death-over bowling and pace variations. His ability to deliver under pressure makes him valuable in T20 cricket.
4. Yasir Khan – Silver Category (Rs. 6 million)
Yasir Khan is a promising domestic talent. His retention reflects Rawalpindi’s focus on balancing experience with emerging players.
PSL 11 Introduces Full Auction System
PSL 11 marks a historic shift in league structure. For the first time, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has replaced the traditional draft system with a full auction format.
Why Was the Draft System Replaced?
According to PCB officials, the auction system is designed to:
- Improve competitive balance
- Increase financial transparency
- Provide better earning opportunities for players
- Encourage strategic team building
This change brings PSL closer to leagues like the IPL and The Hundred.
How the PSL 11 Auction Works
Under the new format:
- Each franchise was allowed to retain four players
- Remaining players enter the open auction pool
- Teams bid for players within budget limits
- Category-based salary caps apply
This system gives franchises more flexibility and creates a dynamic player market.
Rawalpindi’s Strategy for PSL 11 Auction
With four players retained, Rawalpindi enters the auction with a clear foundation.
Core Strengths:
- Experienced captain (Rizwan)
- International T20 player (Billings)
- Strong death bowler (Zaman Khan)
- Young domestic talent (Yasir Khan)
The franchise will likely target:
- Overseas fast bowlers
- Explosive openers
- Spin all-rounders
- Finishing specialists
Walee Technologies and Franchise Rebranding
Rawalpindi’s entry into PSL follows a major ownership change.
Walee Technologies purchased the Multan Sultans franchise rights for Rs. 245 crore, making it one of the biggest franchise transactions in PSL history.
After acquisition, the new owners:
- Relocated the team
- Rebranded it as Rawalpindi
- Ended Multan’s tenure in PSL
This move gives the twin cities their own franchise for the first time.
PSL 11 Teams and Expanded Format
PSL 11 will feature an expanded eight-team structure.
New Teams Added:
- Sialkot Stallionz
- Hyderabad Houston Kingsmen
The season is scheduled to begin on March 26, 2026.
This expansion increases:
- Number of matches
- Broadcast revenue
- Player opportunities
Muhammad Rizwan’s Role as Team Leader
Retaining Muhammad Rizwan in the Platinum category shows Rawalpindi’s confidence in his leadership.
Rizwan is known for:
- Consistent batting performance
- Strong wicketkeeping skills
- Calm captaincy style
- High fitness standards
He is expected to build a competitive squad around discipline and strategic play.
Sam Billings: International Experience Matters
Sam Billings brings experience from:
- England national team
- IPL
- The Hundred
- Big Bash League
His adaptability and power-hitting strengthen Rawalpindi’s middle order.
Zaman Khan: Death Bowling Specialist
In T20 cricket, death overs are crucial.
Zaman Khan is recognized for:
- Yorker accuracy
- Slow-ball variations
- Pressure handling
His retention ensures bowling stability.
Yasir Khan: Emerging Domestic Talent
PSL has always promoted young Pakistani cricketers.
Yasir Khan’s retention shows Rawalpindi’s commitment to nurturing domestic players.
Developing young talent helps maintain long-term success.
Competitive Landscape in PSL 11
With the introduction of an auction system, competition will increase.
Franchises must:
- Manage budgets carefully
- Build balanced squads
- Avoid overpaying for players
Rawalpindi’s early planning gives it an advantage.
Fan Reaction to Rawalpindi’s Retentions
Fans have shown excitement, especially about:
- Rizwan’s leadership
- Billings’ power hitting
- Zaman Khan’s pace
Social media trends show strong anticipation for PSL 11.
Impact on PSL Brand Value
The new auction system and franchise rebranding may:
- Increase sponsorship interest
- Improve broadcasting deals
- Expand international audience
- Boost league valuation
PSL continues to grow as one of the world’s top T20 leagues.
Economic Impact of PSL 11
PSL contributes significantly to Pakistan’s economy through:
- Tourism
- Stadium revenue
- Advertising
- Job creation
- Media rights
Rawalpindi’s inclusion may further boost regional economic activity.
Key Questions Before the Auction
Cricket analysts are asking:
- Will Rawalpindi target overseas pacers?
- Can they build a strong spin attack?
- How will other franchises respond?
The auction will determine final team balance.
What Makes PSL 11 Historic?
PSL 11 stands out because:
- First-ever auction system
- Eight-team format
- Major franchise relocation
- Increased financial investment
These changes could redefine the future of Pakistan Super League.
Conclusion
Rawalpindi’s announcement of its retained players for PSL 11 marks a significant moment in the league’s evolution. With Muhammad Rizwan, Sam Billings, Zaman Khan, and Yasir Khan forming the core, the team heads into the auction with strong foundations.
The introduction of the auction system, expansion to eight teams, and franchise rebranding make PSL 11 one of the most anticipated seasons in league history.
Fans now eagerly await the player auction, where Rawalpindi will complete its squad and prepare for its debut season starting March 26, 2026.
