PSL 2026 Auction: Naseem Shah Most Expensive and Other Costliest Buys; What Their Massive Bids Mean

PSL 2026 Auction: The first-ever auction in the history of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) delivered blockbuster bids, record-breaking prices and a clear statement - PSL 2026 is entering a new financial era.

With close to 900 local and overseas players registered, franchises went aggressive in reshaping their squads. Pace bowlers, explosive batters and multi-dimensional all-rounders dominated the top bracket as teams invested heavily in proven match-winners. |

Leading the charts was Naseem Shah, who emerged as the most expensive player of the auction. But he was far from the only big-ticket signing. Here's a closer look at the costliest buys and what their price tags signal for PSL 2026.

PSL Auction 2026: Naseem Shah Most Expensive Buy

Team: Rawalpindi at PKR 8.65 crore

Rawalpindi made a bold

statement by splashing PKR 8.65 crore on Naseem Shah, making him the highest-paid player of the auction. The franchise built its bowling attack around express pace, signalling its intent to dominate opposition batting line-ups. In T20 cricket, genuine fast bowlers capable of striking in powerplay and death overs are premium assets - and Rawalpindi paid accordingly.

Faheem Ashraf - PKR 8.50 crore

Team: Islamabad United

Islamabad United invested heavily in versatility. Faheem Ashraf's ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a complete T20 package. His price underlines how franchises value multi-dimensional cricketers who offer balance and flexibility in playing XIs.

Fakhar Zaman - PKR 7.95 crore

Team: Lahore Qalandars

A proven PSL performer, Fakhar's explosive powerplay hitting makes him one of the most dangerous openers in the league. Lahore ensured continuity in firepower by bringing him back at a premium.

David Warner - PKR 7.90 crore

Team: Karachi Kings

Warner's signing is as much about leadership and brand value as it is about runs. A global T20 superstar, his presence boosts Karachi's batting strength and adds international appeal to the franchise.

Haris Rauf - PKR 7.60 crore

Team: Lahore Qalandars

Another high-value pace investment, Haris Rauf remains one of the fastest bowlers in franchise cricket. Lahore doubled down on its pace strategy, reinforcing its bowling dominance.

Mark Chapman - PKR 7 crore

Team: Islamabad United

Chapman strengthens Islamabad's middle order with his aggressive stroke play. In tight T20 contests, reliable finishers command high value - and his price reflects that demand.

Khawaja Mohammad Nafay - PKR 6.50 crore

Team: Quetta Gladiators

Quetta made a major domestic investment, banking on long-term batting stability and local star potential.

Salman Ali Agha - PKR 5.85 crore

Team: Karachi Kings

A consistent performer across formats, Salman adds composure in the middle overs and part-time bowling depth.

Rilee Rossouw - PKR 5.55 crore

Team: Quetta Gladiators

Rossouw brings PSL experience and proven six-hitting ability, making him one of the most impactful overseas signings.

Mohammad Amir - PKR 5.40 crore

Team: Rawalpindi

Rawalpindi's strategy was clear - invest heavily in a potent pace battery. Pairing Amir with Naseem Shah gives them one of the most formidable new-ball attacks in PSL 2026.

PSL Auction 2026: What These Massive Bids Mean?

1. Pace Is Priceless: Fast bowlers dominated the top bracket, highlighting how franchises prioritise wicket-taking threats in high-pressure overs.

2. All-Rounders Drive Tactical Flexibility: Faheem Ashraf and Salman Ali Agha underline the premium on players who offer dual skills.

3. Overseas Stars Still Matter: Warner, Rossouw and Chapman show PSL's continued global pull and the commercial importance of marquee names.

4. New Teams Made Bold Statements: Rawalpindi's aggressive spending signals their intent to compete immediately rather than rebuild gradually.

The PSL 2026 auction was not just about assembling squads - it was about ambition. With record-breaking bids and strategic investments across departments, franchises have raised expectations significantly.

Now, the spotlight shifts from the auction table to the cricket field, where these costly buys must justify their price tags under pressure.