A notable trend has emerged with seasoned international cricketers increasingly choosing the Pakistan Super League (PSL) over the Indian Premier League (IPL), a shift that gained momentum just before the BCCI confirmed the IPL 2026 player auction list. David Willey, the experienced England all-rounder, believes this change is primarily driven by the "certainty and security" the PSL offers.
Speaking on the sidelines of the ILT20, where he is representing Dubai Capitals, Willey highlighted that many players are prioritizing guaranteed game-time in the PSL, even if it means forgoing the potential financial rewards of the IPL. The IPL's inherent unpredictability, stemming from the auction process and restrictions on overseas players in team compositions, can lead to players spending extended periods, possibly 10-11 weeks, on the bench.
"You may sit out 10 weeks in IPL; PSL offers real game-time," Willey stated, encapsulating the core reason behind the shifting player trend. His statement is particularly significant, considering the simultaneous scheduling of the PSL and IPL, two of the world's most prominent T20 leagues. Willey's choice to prioritize the PSL reflects the league's rising stature and appeal among elite international cricketers.
Faf du Plessis, former South Africa captain with 14 IPL seasons and a leadership stint with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, was among the first high-profile players to opt out of the IPL and sign with the PSL. Moeen Ali, another England all-rounder with experience playing for RCB and Chennai Super Kings, soon followed suit.
Unlike mega auctions, mini-auctions generally provide less clarity for overseas players. Consequently, players like Du Plessis and Moeen are choosing stability over uncertainty, a concern previously voiced by David Warner and Kane Williamson after the IPL 2025 auction, where they went unsold before securing PSL contracts. Josh Little and Mohammad Nabi, IPL omissions who secured PSL deals for 2025, further exemplify this emerging pattern.
Willey himself has officially signed up for the PSL 2025 draft after previously representing Multan Sultans. He made a significant impact in the ninth edition of the PSL, claiming 15 wickets in 11 matches with an average of 20.40 and an economy rate of 7.46, making him the fourth-highest wicket-taker of the season. He has played 19 PSL matches, amassing 28 wickets and contributing 66 runs. Overall in PSL, Willey played 23 matches, scored 80 runs with a strike rate of 97.5 and took 32 wickets.
The PSL is celebrating its landmark 10th edition, drawing renewed attention to its high-quality cricket and intense competition. Willey's endorsement adds to the league's international reputation, aligning him with a growing list of overseas stars who have publicly lauded the PSL for its high standards. The tournament's credibility and global profile continue to rise, setting the stage for a thrilling season. Willey's decision highlights the increasing perception of the PSL as a top-tier destination for players seeking high-quality cricketing experiences.
David Willey, born on February 28, 1990, is a left-handed batsman and bowler. He was part of the England team that won the 2022 T20 World Cup. He plays for the LSG franchise in the Indian Premier League. Willey made his IPL debut in 2018 and has played 11 matches, taking 6 wickets.
