Shakib, Malan, Carey sign up for PSL draft

LAHORE: The stage is set for the 10th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) as the much-anticipated player draft is scheduled to take place in the scenic coastal city of Gwadar on January 11, 2025.

Top cricketing stars from around the globe have signed up for the marquee tournament, including New Zealand all-rounder Daryl Mitchell, Bangladesh’s Shakib Al Hasan, England's famous player David Malan and Australia’s Alex Carey.

Daryl Mitchell, New Zealand’s seasoned all-rounder, officially joined the PSL 10 roster on Friday. Mitchell, son of former rugby union player John Mitchell, has an impressive international record, having representing New Zealand in 31 Tests, 39 ODIs, and 67 T20Is.

Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman has also shown his availability for the PSL. Jason Roy will also be seen playing in the PSL. Meanwhile, Shakib Al Hasan, Bangladesh’s veteran all-rounder and former captain, became the first Bangladeshi player to sign up for the draft. Shakib, who last played in the PSL for Peshawar Zalmi in 2023, brings a wealth of experience, having featured in 14 PSL matches with 181 runs and 8 wickets to his name.

Adding to the excitement, Australia’s wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey has also joined the PSL draft. Carey has represented Australia in 35 Tests, 76 ODIs, and 38 T20Is, amassing over 3,700 runs. This will be Carey’s first appearance in the PSL.

South Africa's Rilee Rossouw has also signed up for the draft. Mustafizur Rahman, Sikandar Raza, David Willey, Usman Khawaja, Jason Roy, and Dawid Malan have already signed up for the 10th edition.

Franchise representatives questioned the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) about transportation plans, including whether a chartered plane would be arranged for participants. They also sought clarity on accommodations and contingency plans for any potential issues in Gwadar.