Former England bowler David Willey, who has played for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK),
revealed why some experienced overseas cricketers are evaluating their options. With the IPL and PSL competing, the amount of marquee overseas players available is limited, lowering demand for aged or out-of-form players.
Several overseas experienced cricketers have decided to forego the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction in favour of registering for the Pakistan Super League (PSL), which will be held during the same window as the IPL. This startling move has resulted in famous players including as Moeen Ali, Faf du Plessis, and Glenn Maxwell choosing the PSL over the world’s largest T20 league. While Moeen joined the IPL in 2018, du Plessis and Maxwell have been with the event since 2011 and 2013, respectively, and both have led clubs over their lengthy careers.
The intensity of the IPL auction also has an impact; intense competition among younger, in-form players raises the danger of big stars leaving unsold. Even legends have experienced similar setback, with Chris Gayle being unsold in the 2011 auction before being signed as a replacement.
Another important component is game time. Many overseas players value consistent playing opportunities, which the IPL cannot always provide because to its rigorous overseas-player cap and squad composition. Nathan Ellis, one of Australia’s best T20 bowlers, is a great example; despite his talent, he spent nearly the entire IPL 2025 season on the bench for CSK, playing only one match.
In contrast, the PSL gives a better chance of regular playing time. While the IPL pays more, the ability to play more frequently makes the PSL a more enticing option for numerous older cricketers.
“I think it’s very individual. You may never quite know how the IPL auction will pan out. I think there’s a little bit more certainty and security with the PSL for players. And, you know, depending on individual circumstances, people might feel like they’ve got more chance of actually playing in the PSL rather than just sitting on the sidelines for 10-11 weeks, which can be a defining factor for people,” Willey told Hindustan Times.
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