Last week, the eighth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL 2023 draft) was held in Karachi. As the franchises worked to build their dream teams, many big names were left unpicked in the draft. With the new season fast approaching, fans are eager to see how the PSL 8 teams will shape up.
PSL 2023 Draft: Key Players Left Out
The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is set to begin its 2023 season, and the recent draft has left fans and experts discussing which key players were left out. Some notable omissions include Aaron Finch, Rassie van, Kieron Pollard, Dawid Malan, Shakib al Hasan, Lungi Ngidi, Reece Topley, Mohammad Nabi, Ahmad Shehzad, and Mohammad Hafeez.
1. Aaron Finch to miss out on PSL 2023
Australian captain Aaron Finch, who was listed in the Platinum category for the eighth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL 8), was not picked by any of the franchises. It is speculated that his national duties and recent form may be the reason behind his absence from the PSL 2023 squad.
2. Rassie van der Dussen
South Africa’s star batter, Rassie van der Dussen, was not picked in the Platinum category of the eighth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL 8). He missed the T20 World Cup 2022 due to injury and may also be unavailable due to South Africa’s packed schedule.
3. Kieron Pollard
Kieron Pollard, a long-time staple in T20 leagues around the world, was not selected in the Platinum category of PSL 8. The Pakistan Super League teams have decided to bid farewell to the star all-rounder.
4. Dawid Malan
English cricketer Dawid Malan, who was included in the Platinum category of the PSL 8 draft, suffered a serious injury during the T20 World Cup 2022. This may have led to his exclusion from the PSL 2023 squad.
5. Shakib al Hasan
Bangladesh captain Shakib al Hasan was also listed in the Platinum category of the draft, but a potential conflict with the schedule of the Bangladesh Premier League may have kept him from being selected for the PSL 2023 squad.
6. Lungi Ngidi
South African speedster Lungi Ngidi was another high-profile player who went unpicked in the draft. His uncertain availability for the entire tournament may have played a role in his exclusion from the PSL 2023 squad.
7. Reece Topley
English player Reece Topley was also overlooked in the draft, likely due to concerns about his fitness following a ligament injury that ruled him out of the T20 World Cup 2022.
8. Mohammad Nabi
Afghan all-rounder Mohammad Nabi will also not be a part of the PSL 2023 squad after going unpicked in the draft. He recently stepped down as captain of the Afghanistan team following their exit from the T20 World Cup 2022.
9. Ahmad Shehzad
Two other players who were not retained by their previous teams and remained unpicked in the draft were Ahmad Shehzad and Mohammad Hafeez. While Shehzad was previously a member of the Quetta Gladiators, Hafeez played his last season for the Lahore Qalandars and has announced his retirement from international cricket.
10. Mohammad Hafeez
Two other players who were not retained by their previous teams and remained unpicked in the draft were Ahmad Shehzad and Mohammad Hafeez. While Shehzad was previously a member of the Quetta Gladiators, Hafeez played his last season for the Lahore Qalandars and has announced his retirement from international cricket.
Overall, the PSL 2023 draft has left fans wondering about the makeup of the teams and what the tournament will bring. With a mix of seasoned veterans and exciting up-and-comers, the Pakistan Super League is sure to be a thrilling event for cricket fans around the world.