England all-rounder David Willey has expressed his preference for the Pakistan Super League (PSL) over the Indian Premier League (IPL), citing greater “certainty and security” for players.
Willey, who previously opted out of the IPL auction to participate in the PSL’s landmark 10th edition, highlighted that the PSL offers more guaranteed game time, whereas players in the IPL risk spending weeks on the sidelines.
“Depending on individual circumstances, people might feel they have more chance of actually playing in the PSL rather than just sitting out for 10–11 weeks, which can be a defining factor,” Willey told an Indian news outlet while appearing at the ILT20 tournament for Dubai Capitals. He emphasized that the PSL provides a more predictable and secure environment for cricketers, making it an attractive alternative for international stars.
The IPL, meanwhile, has faced challenges in recent months, losing both brand value and several star players. Cricketers such as Faf du Plessis, Moeen Ali, and Glenn Maxwell have committed to participating in the PSL instead of entering the IPL auction, set to take place in Abu Dhabi next week.
These developments have strengthened the PSL’s reputation as a competitive and reliable league for international players seeking consistent playing opportunities.
Since its inception in 2016 with five franchises, the PSL has expanded and evolved, growing to six sides by 2018. The upcoming 11th edition will see the addition of two new teams, marking the first major restructuring of the league in seven years and bringing the total number of franchises to eight.
The expansion is expected to increase opportunities for both local and overseas players, further enhancing the league’s appeal and providing a more stable platform compared to the uncertainties often associated with IPL participation.
Willey’s comments reflect a growing trend of international cricketers prioritizing leagues that guarantee meaningful playing time, professional growth, and stability over traditional prestige, cementing the PSL’s status as a prominent T20 tournament on the global stage.
