PSL 2026 Salaries Break All Records
The PSL 2026 salaries have rewritten the financial history of the Pakistan Super League. With the league expanding to eight teams and introducing its first ever auction system, spending reached record levels ahead of the new season starting on March 26.
Pakistan cricket has gained major momentum on the domestic front after successful franchise sales and a landmark auction event that lasted several hours.
For official league updates, visit the Pakistan Super League website:
https://www.psl-t20.com
Record Franchise Sales Power PSL Growth
Before the auction even began, the Pakistan Cricket Board unlocked massive financial growth.
Two new franchises in Hyderabad and Sialkot were sold for:
- 1.75 billion Pakistani rupees per year
- 1.85 billion Pakistani rupees per year
Additionally, the Multan franchise changed ownership for a record 2.45 billion rupees annually.
This financial boost allowed PSL to confidently launch its inaugural player auction, replacing the traditional draft system.
You can read more about global T20 league growth here:
Read Also Here: PSL 2026 Squads Full Team Wise Players List
Highest Paid Cricketers in PSL 2026 salaries
Below is the full list of the top 20 highest earning players in PSL 2026:
- Steve Smith – 140 million rupees
- Saim Ayub – 126 million rupees
- Naseem Shah – 86.5 million rupees
- Faheem Ashraf – 85 million rupees
- Daryl Mitchell – 80.5 million rupees
- Fakhar Zaman – 79.5 million rupees
- David Warner – 79 million rupees
- Haris Rauf – 76 million rupees
- Shaheen Afridi – 70 million rupees
- Babar Azam – 70 million rupees
- Abrar Ahmed – 70 million rupees
- Shadab Khan – 70 million rupees
- Mark Chapman – 70 million rupees
- Khawaja Nafay – 65 million rupees
- Mustafizur Rehman – 64.4 million rupees
- Moeen Ali – 64.4 million rupees
- Devon Conway – 63 million rupees
- Aaron Hardie – 63 million rupees
- Mohammad Nawaz – 61.6 million rupees
- Marnus Labuschagne – 58.8 million rupees
Steve Smith leads the list as the highest paid player in PSL history with 140 million rupees.
What PSL 2026 salaries
The introduction of the auction system marks a turning point in PSL history. Franchises were allowed to retain key players before bidding began, but intense competition followed for international stars and top Pakistani talent.
The expanded eight team structure, record franchise fees, and major player contracts signal that PSL is now competing financially with other global T20 leagues.
The new season begins on March 26 and is expected to be the most commercially successful edition yet.
Historical Context of PSL 2026 salaries
When PSL launched in 2016, the league operated with five teams and a draft based system. Player salaries were significantly lower compared to other global T20 tournaments.
Over the past decade, the league has gradually expanded its brand value, improved broadcast deals, and attracted international players.
The 2026 season represents the biggest financial leap in PSL history with:
- First ever auction system
- Eight team format
- Record breaking franchise fees
- Highest player salaries ever
This transformation shows how Pakistan cricket has strengthened its domestic structure and commercial appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the highest paid player in PSL 2026?
Steve Smith is the highest paid cricketer with 140 million rupees.
How much did Naseem Shah earn in PSL 2026?
Naseem Shah earned 86.5 million rupees at the auction.
When does PSL 2026 start?
The season begins on March 26.
Why did PSL introduce an auction system?
The auction system was introduced to modernize the league and align it with other major T20 competitions.
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