Setting up the eleventh season Pakistan Super League (PSL 11) rocked by withdrawals of important players such as high-profile international stars Glenn Maxwell, Harry Brookeand Faf du Plessis It is reported that they have given up on the 2026 tournament. The triple whammy comes amid broader concerns about the league’s ability to attract top overseas talent, leading to a lengthy signing window as franchises struggle to fill their rosters.
The big three are giving up: Reasons for their withdrawal
The absence of these cricketing heavyweights marks a difficult period for the PSL, which aims to expand to eight teams this season. While each player’s decision is individually motivated, it describes the competitive landscape of T20 leagues and the demands on international cricketers.
Glenn Maxwell: Prioritizing fitness and IPL commitments
Enigmatic Australian all-rounder Maxwell has reportedly ‘closed the door’ to play in PSL 11. Sources close to the player say Maxwell is making his physical well-being and recovery a priority. With a packed international schedule, especially T20 World Cup 2026 Looking big, Maxwell seems keen to manage his workload effectively to deliver a top performance for Australia. His decision highlights a growing trend of players strategically choosing tournaments to maximize their fitness and earning potential.
Harry Brook: England’s attention and interest in PSL is zero
Brook, the young English sensation who had earlier given up on the IPL, was a name many hoped to see in the PSL. However, reports suggest that Brook has shown “zero interest” in signing up for the PSL 11 draft. It appears that Brook is keeping an eye on upcoming or ongoing international assignments and focusing on his England career. For many rising stars, national team commitments often take precedence and Brook’s decision underlines his commitment to cementing his place in England across all formats.
Faf du Plessis: Change of heart after initial interest
Perhaps the most surprising withdrawal is that of former South African captain Du Plessis. After initially expressing enthusiasm for the PSL as a “fresh challenge”, especially after opting out of the IPL for 2026, the latest reports in January confirm that Du Plessis has ultimately ruled out involvement. The exact reasons for his change of heart aren’t entirely clear, but they seem to contribute to top-level talent becoming increasingly picky about their league assignments.
– Faf du Plessis left the PSL due to personal reasons.
– Glenn Maxwell withdrew his name from PSL due to personal reasons.
– Harry Brook is not interested in PSL and it is reported that he has also withdrawn.
– Due to the lack of interest from overseas players, the PSL… pic.twitter.com/OvBS8G0ioI— Vipin Tiwari (@Vpintiwari952) January 31, 2026
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PSL enters a new era with 8 teams and a revamped player recruitment system
The 11th edition of PSL is scheduled to be held from March 26 to May 3, 2026. This season marks the expansion of the league from six to eight franchises with the addition of Hyderabad and Sialkot Stallionz. For the first time, the PSL will replace the traditional player draft with a player auction model. The player auction will be held on February 11. Teams are allowed a maximum of four catches (one per category: Platinum, Diamond, Gold and Silver). The deadline for existing franchises is February 3rd, while new teams have until February 6th to confirm theirs.
Also READ: Pakistan Super League adds two teams for 2026 edition; see record prices and new owners
