In a significant move to elevate the Pakistan Super League’s (PSL) profile, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has directly approached English batting maestro Joe Root to participate in the next edition of the tournament in 2026.
PCB Boss Mohsin Naqvi’s Personal Pitch to Joe Root
As reported by Pakistani media, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi is in active discussions with Joe Root, highlighting the competitive quality of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and the passionate fanbase awaiting top international stars.
There are strong chances of the English batting legend featuring in PSL 2026 if talks move in the right direction. However, neither Naqvi nor Root has officially made a comment on the buzz.
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The Game-Changer: PSL 2026’s Direct Signing Rule
To boost the PSL’s global appeal, the PCB is planning to allow franchises to make direct signings of overseas players outside of the traditional draft system in the upcoming season. This move is expected to give teams more freedom and help them attract top international stars without relying only on the draft, and that will eventually raise the PSL’s profile in the cricket world.
It is being said that the franchises have already begun reaching out to high-profile overseas stars. Adding to the excitement, each franchise is likely to receive an extra budget of around $100,000 specifically for the direct signings. This additional spending power could open the door for marquee players and make marquee acquisitions like Joe Root more financially feasible.
🚨UPDATE ON PSL 11
– Direct signings likely to be allowed for all franchises.
– Franchises already in contact with big names
– Each franchise may get $100,000 extra for direct signings.
– Joe Root is also in talks, likely to feature in PSL 11. ( Qadir Khawaja) pic.twitter.com/vXH2aiPj7P
— junaiz (@dhillow_) December 30, 2025
Why Joe Root Is the Ultimate Target for PSL
Beyond star power, Root represents the profile of player the PSL craves. A world-class batsman with a global reputation for excellence, his presence would validate the PSL’s sporting credibility on the world stage and draw immense international media attention, as well as provide a masterclass in technique for young Pakistani batters during his stint.
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Can PSL 2026 Fit Into Joe Root’s Schedule?
Root’s PSL debut totally depends on the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). Since England’s iconic batter doesn’t have an IPL contract, there are high chances of him playing in Pakistan’s T20 league if the deal is finalized. After the New Year’s Test at the SCG, England will play the next Test in June against England, and this schedule allows Root to play in the PSL 2026.
Historically, Root has been selective with franchise league appearances, prioritizing Test cricket. His participation would depend on ECB approval and his personal readiness for a T20 stint in Pakistan. However, he has been participating in the domestic leagues across the world, including The Hundred, SA20, IPL, ILT20, Caribbean Premier League (CPL), and Big Bash League (BBL).
Wasim Akram Named PSL Brand Ambassador
The Pakistan Cricket Board has named the legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram as the official brand ambassador for PSL 2026. Mohsin Naqvi feels the former Pakistan captain’s stature and legacy are the perfect face to represent the Pakistan Super League’s growing image to the world.
The PCB boss stated, “Nothing strengthens the PSL brand more than Wasim Akram.”
