Pakistan Super League newcomers Hyderabad have announced their first player retentions and direct signing ahead of the PSL 11 player auction on February 11, 2026, marking a major step in building their franchise squad for the upcoming season.
Hyderabad’s retention list reveals a clear strategy: balance young talent with experienced performers and inject international star power. The franchise retained Saim Ayub in the Platinum category for PKR 126 million, making him the most expensive player retained in the league’s history. Ayub’s aggressive batting and consistency in domestic and franchise cricket made him a marquee choice for the new side.
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In the Diamond category, the team secured Usman Khan for PKR 46.2 million, adding a strong middle-order presence. Emerging players Maaz Sadaqat and Akif Javed were retained in the Emerging and Gold categories for PKR 35 million and PKR 19.6 million respectively. These selections reflect Hyderabad’s focus on both batting depth and bowling variety ahead of the auction.
Adding to this core group, Hyderabad secured Australia’s Marnus Labuschagne as a direct international signing — a surprising move that has already sparked conversation among fans and analysts. While Labuschagne is best known for his Test and ODI credentials, his T20 experience is limited, with just one international appearance for Australia. Despite this, the franchise sees value in his batting technique, temperament and part-time spin bowling skills.
This season is unique for the PSL as it introduces a full player auction system for the first time, replacing the traditional draft model while also expanding the league to eight teams with the inclusion of Hyderabad and Sialkot Stallionz. These new franchises were granted extended deadlines to finalize retentions, giving them an edge in selecting players before the auction.
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Hyderabad’s leadership has also invested in strong coaching staff, appointing former Australia fast bowler Jason Gillespie as head coach, with international experts Grant Bradburn, Craig White, Hanif Malik and Zac Martin in supporting roles. This combination of coaching talent aims to build a competitive culture and effective player development.
The franchise is set to reveal its official team name and logo at a grand event at Niaz Stadium, scheduled for February 7, adding to fan anticipation. The early retention moves and high-profile signing suggest Hyderabad will be active in the auction and looking to build a balanced squad capable of competing in their inaugural PSL season.
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With the auction just days away and excitement building across Pakistan and the cricket world, Hyderabad’s early moves position them as one of the most talked-about teams heading into PSL 11.
