Big news for PSL fans! England all-rounder David Willey confirmed his official participation in the HBL PSL 10 draft 2025 draft. Other big names like Jason Roy and Usman Khawaja make the upcoming draft that much more exciting, along with this. A first for the league, the draft itself is slated to happen January 11, 2025, in Gwadar, Balochistan.
David Willey Joins Other Big Names in PSL 10 Draft
The PSL 10 draft is set to be a star studded affair. England’s hard-hitting opener Jason Roy has also signed up, along with David Willey. England’s World Cup winning team hero Roy is a PSL veteran. Through 38 PSL outings, he has finished with 1260 runs at an average of 36 with a solid strike rate of 146.51. He even holds the record for the highest individual score in PSL history: 145 not out. Usman Khawaja joins the draft pool after Australian Test opener.
The Draft Heads to Gwadar
This year’s draft is historic for another reason: This is the first time it’s being held in Gwadar, Balochistan. The PSL’s move to grow the game across Pakistan is shown by this one. The draft is set for January 11, 2025.
Will Multan Sultans Retain David Willey?
Now, the big question for Multan Sultans fans: They will try to bring back David Willey. Let’s look at the reasons why they might:
- Proven PSL Performer: Willey has consistently delivered in the PSL. He’s taken 28 wickets in 19 matches and has been a valuable lower-order hitter. In PSL 9, he took 15 wickets, placing him fourth among the top wicket-takers. His bowling average of 20.40 and economy rate of 7.46 were impressive.
- All-Around Value: Willey’s left-arm pace is a great asset, and he can score important runs too. His all-round performance in the PSL 9 final against Islamabad United showed how valuable he is.
- Experience Matters: Willey brings a lot of international experience. This is helpful for younger players on the team.
- Good Team Fit: He’s already played for the Sultans, so he knows the team and gets along with everyone.
Factors That Could Affect Retention:
- Draft Strategy: Depending on who else is available in the draft, the Sultans might go after different players.
- Cost of Retention: Keeping Willey might mean using a high draft pick or a retention card, which could limit their options in other player categories.
- English Player Availability: While things look positive, there’s always a chance that English players’ availability could be affected by England’s international schedule.
The Pick Order is Set
The pick order for the draft has also been revealed:
- Lahore Qalandars will pick first in Platinum category.
- Karachi Kings will pick second.
- Quetta Gladiators will pick third.
- Peshawar Zalmi will pick fourth.
- Multan Sultans will pick fifth.
- Islamabad United will pick sixth.
Conclusion
Multan Sultans are expected to retain David Willey. He’s a good player, and he fits in with the team. Though they will still have to weigh our draft strategy and other players. We won’t have to wait long, as the draft in Gwadar on January 11th should tell us!