PSL franchises have released their key players for the upcoming draft hinting at major shifts in the outfits of the teams. Anticipation is building for the forthcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 9 draft on 13th December, as franchises strategically reshape their teams by releasing key players.
Among the notable departures is Fakhar Zaman, a longstanding figure in Lahore Qalandars, hinting at a potential shift in team dynamics. Quetta Gladiators have chosen to release their main all-rounder, Mohammad Nawaz, while Karachi Kings bid farewell to both Mohammad Amir and Haider Ali. Although Haider Ali was a new entry in the Kings’ lineup, Mohammad Amir served as the premier pacer for the team season after season.
Shahnawaz Dahani, the pace talent, has departed from Multan Sultans, and hard-hitting batter Asif Ali has been released by Islamabad United. Karachi Kings further change with the departure of young Qasim Akram, and Peshawar Zalmi sees the exit of promising pacer Arshad Iqbal.
Here is the list of the most shocking releases by teams in PSL 9:
| Team | Player |
| Lahore Qalandars | Fakhar Zaman |
| Islamabad United | Asif Ali |
| Multan Sultans | Shahnawaz Dahani |
| Peshawar Zalmi | Arshad Iqbal, Slaman Irshad |
| Quetta Gladiators | Mohammad Nawaz |
| Karachi Kings | Haider Ali, Mohammad Amir, Sharjeel Khan, Qasim Akram |
These strategic decisions underscore the dynamic nature of team compositions, to accommodate the evolving circumstances. Fans eagerly await the draft to discover whether these players will reunite with their former teams or embark on new journeys with different franchises in PSL 9.
Hum toh Qasim Akram ko captain banany ki batin kr rahy thy 💀