Former South African captain Faf du Plessis has announced that he will skip this year’s Indian Premier League (IPL) to participate in the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) season. The 39-year-old cricketer, known for his aggressive batting and calm leadership, revealed his decision on Instagram, expressing gratitude for his 14-year IPL journey. “It’s a big decision, and one that comes with a lot of gratitude when I look back,” he wrote, highlighting the support of teammates, coaches, and support staff throughout his long stint in India’s premier T20 league.
A New Challenge in Pakistan
Du Plessis emphasized that his move to the PSL represents a fresh opportunity to grow as a player and embrace new experiences. “This year, I’ve chosen to take on a new challenge and will be playing in the upcoming PSL season,” he said. He described the PSL as a league “filled with incredible talent and energy” and expressed excitement at experiencing Pakistan’s renowned hospitality. His participation is expected to significantly boost the profile of the league, attracting global attention and inspiring emerging Pakistani cricketers.
PSL Expansion and Franchise Developments
The upcoming PSL season is set for expansion with the addition of two new franchises. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has scheduled the auction for January 6, 2026, with shortlisted cities including Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Hyderabad, Sialkot, Muzaffarabad, and Gilgit. Meanwhile, existing teams such as Lahore Qalandars, Islamabad United, Karachi Kings, and Quetta Gladiators have renewed their contracts for another 10 years. Multan Sultans, however, will not extend its franchise agreement, with owner Ali Tareen citing financial losses as the primary reason.
Du Plessis’ decision to join the PSL comes at a time when the league is increasingly attracting international talent, enhancing competitiveness, and offering new opportunities for players seeking different challenges. His participation is expected to elevate the overall standard of the tournament while strengthening cricketing ties between Pakistan and the global cricketing community.
