The pleasure of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 It's getting more and more intense as all six franchises have revealed their shortlists ahead of the much-anticipated January 11th.
PSL 2025: Teams announce players ahead of schedule
Teams were allowed to retain up to eight players from their former teams, and several franchises used the entire quota. Islamabad United, Lahore Qalandars and Quetta Gladiators they chose to keep eight players, showing their confidence in the core set up. Meanwhile, Karachi Kings, Multan Sultan and Peshawar Zalmi they kept seven players apiece, having well-known performers, with developed skills, and well-known professionals.
These retention decisions emphasize the best way to build competitive teams, ensuring that there is experience and youthful energy. With key players retained, the teams are ready to start another exciting season, aiming to capitalize on their strengths as they adapt to the changes in the league.
Pakistan Super League: Complete list of players retained by all six franchises
1. Islamabad United
Islamabad, the most successful team in the history of HBL PSL with three titles, have retained key players who played a major role in their championship campaign last season. Skipper Shadab Khan who was also the player of the tournament, remains the cornerstone of the team's talent.
Fast bowler Naseem Shahwho performed very well throughout the previous season, were kept in the Platinum category, ensuring that United's team is still playing dangerously. Imad Wasimnow serving as a consultant, along with Azam Khanprovide the necessary information between the central system. With a strong mix of youth and experience, Islamabad will look to defend their title and continue to dominate.
- Platinum: Shadab Khan (Captain), Naseem Shah
- Diamond: Imad Wasim (Mentor), Azam Khan
- Gold: Salman Ali Agha (Brand Ambassador), Haider Ali
- Silver: Colin Munro, Rumman Raees
2. Many Sultans
Multan, who finished last season, have retained their captain, Mohammad Rizwanwhose leadership and consistent behavior have been invaluable. Guest-spinner Usama Mira key wicket-taker in previous seasons, he remains in the Platinum squad to bolster their bowling. David Willeywho has been playing consistently in the PSL, continues to provide all the benefits. Iftikhar Ahmedan experienced batsman in the middle, beside him Usman Khanthey ensure that the Sultans remain competitive. With a combination of veteran players and up-and-coming talent, Multan are looking to return to the top.
- Platinum: Mohammad Rizwan (Captain), Usama Mir
- Diamond: David Willey (Mentor), Iftikhar Ahmed (Brand Ambassador), Usman Khan
- Gold: Chris Jordan
- Silver: Faisal Akram
3. Peshawar Zalmi
Peshawar, once champions, retained their captain, Abara Azamthe most successful player in the history of PSL, who continues his batting streak. A powerful opener Saim Ayubwho impressed last season, is still an important factor. Mohammad Harisa young wicketkeeper, provides stability behind the stumps, while Arif Yaqoob, Mehran Mumtaz and Sufyan Moqim boost their bowling attack. With a stable squad that is young and experienced, Zalmi will look to reclaim their glory and extend their PSL success.
- Platinum: Babar Azam (Captain), Saim Ayub
- Diamond: Mohammad Haris
- Silver: Arif Yaqoob, Mehran Mumtaz, Sufyan Moqim (Brand Ambassador)
- They are coming: But Raza
Also WATCH: South African commentator mocks Pakistan players' ability to speak English on Day 2 of Cape Town Test
4. Quetta Gladiators
Quetta, the winners in 2019, retained Rilee Rossouwthe most successful player among foreign players in PSL history, who continues to be their backbone. Mystery spinner Abrar Ahmedwho has been terrorizing the fighters, remains in the Diamond group. Mohammad Amirveteran pacer, will lead their bowling attack, while Saud Shakeel they increase the depth of the central system. Akeal Hosein and Mohammad Wasim Jr., two of the top T20 players, remain in Gold, ensuring that the Gladiators bowling team remains strong. Quetta are looking to restore their winning ways with this well-rounded squad.
- Diamond: Rilee Rossouw, Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Amir (Mentor)
- Gold: Saud Shakeel (Brand Ambassador), Akeal Hosein, Mohammad Wasim Jr
- Silver: Khawaja Mohammad Nafay, Usman Tariq
5. Kings of Karachi
Karachi, one of the original franchises, retained it Hassan Ali and James Vince in the Diamond category, which offers speed and consistency. Skipper Shan Masoodwho has been so important, remains in Gold with the rising star, Muhammad Irfan Khanwho was recognized for his acting skills in the previous issue. Arafat Minhas and Zahid Mehmood add depth in Silver, when Tim Seifert provides an external route behind the stumps. Kings are looking to build on their momentum and compete for their first title since 2020.
- Diamond: Hasan Ali, James Vince
- Gold: Shan Masood (Captain), Muhammad Irfan Khan
- Silver: Arafat Minhas (Brand Ambassador), Zahid Mehmood, Tim Seifert
6. Lahore Qalandars
Lahore, champions of 2023, retained Shaheen Afridi and Fakhar Zamantwo of the best performers. Haris Raufrising star, has been retained as brand ambassador and continues to lead the way in Diamond. Sikandar Razacircular, strengthens their central structure, while Abdullah Shafiq and Jahandad Khan add to their depth of Gold. I am David Wiese In giving notice to Silver, the Qalandars have a well-rounded team and will look to continue their momentum and defend their title.
- Platinum: Shaheen Shah Afridi, Fakhar Zaman
- Diamond: Haris Rauf (Brand Ambassador), Sikandar Raza
- Gold: Abdullah Shafique, Jahandad Khan, Zaman Khan
- Silver: David Wiese