The Pakistan Super League (PSL) Governing Council has officially confirmed that PSL 11 will begin on March 26, marking the start of what officials describe as a new phase for the country’s premier T20 tournament.

The decision was finalized on Friday during a high-level meeting at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore, chaired by PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. The meeting was attended by representatives of all eight PSL franchises, along with senior Pakistan Cricket Board officials and members of PSL management.

While the start date was confirmed, discussions also focused on a potential major overhaul of the player recruitment system. After using a draft-based model for the first ten seasons, league officials are now considering a hybrid approach known as a “drauction”, combining elements of both a draft and an auction.

No final decision was reached on the new system during the meeting. A working group has been formed to continue discussions over the weekend, with the possibility of another governing council session if needed.

The debate has gained complexity due to the planned addition of two new franchises from Hyderabad and Sialkot. League officials are attempting to balance the interests of existing teams, who want to retain core players, with those of the new franchises seeking a fair opportunity to sign top talent.

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Reports suggest the new teams favor fewer retentions and an auction-style model, while several established franchises prefer continuing with the traditional draft system.

Further announcements regarding the full match schedule, player retentions, and recruitment timelines are expected in the coming weeks as preparations for PSL 11 move forward.