PSL vs IPL Clash Continues: Full List Of Players Who Quit PSL To Join IPL
The scheduling clash between the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and the Indian Premier
League (IPL) has once again created controversy, with several overseas players leaving PSL franchises to participate in IPL 2026.
Traditionally, the PSL was held between January and February, allowing it to finish before the IPL began. However, recent changes to the global cricket calendar - including ICC tournament commitments - have pushed PSL into the March-April window, directly overlapping with the IPL for the second consecutive year.
This overlap has led to multiple players switching leagues mid-season, reigniting debate about the growing dominance of the IPL in world cricket.
Why Players Are Leaving PSL For IPL
The shift began in 2025 when international scheduling changes forced PSL organisers to move their season. Since then, franchises have faced repeated challenges keeping overseas players available throughout the tournament.
Replacement opportunities in the IPL - widely regarded as the world's biggest T20 league - have proven difficult for players to ignore. Higher salaries, greater exposure, and long-term contract opportunities remain major driving factors behind the shift.
In several cases, PSL franchises have faced sudden withdrawals after players received IPL replacement offers.
Full List Of Players Who Left PSL 2026 To Join IPL 2026
Here are the confirmed and reported player movements from PSL to IPL across the last two seasons:
PSL 2025
- Corbin Bosch - Left Peshawar Zalmi to join Mumbai Indians as a replacement for Lizaad Williams. The move resulted in a one-year PSL ban for Bosch.
PSL 2026
- Blessing Muzarabani - Left Islamabad United to join Kolkata Knight Riders as a replacement for Mustafizur Rahman.
- Gudakesh Motie - Reportedly withdrew from Lahore Qalandars and is linked with joining Lucknow Super Giants as a replacement option.
- Spencer Johnson - Signed by Quetta Gladiators but withdrew before PSL 2026 and later joined Chennai Super Kings as a replacement for Nathan Ellis.
- Dasun Shanaka - Left Lahore Qalandars to join Rajasthan Royals as a replacement for Sam Curran.
These exits highlight the increasing pressure PSL faces when competing directly with the IPL calendar.
PSL Faces Growing Pressure Amid IPL Dominance
The growing trend of players leaving PSL mid-season has sparked serious concern among administrators and fans alike. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has previously warned of possible disciplinary action against players who prioritise IPL commitments after signing PSL contracts.
With both leagues now running in overlapping windows, the competition for overseas talent has intensified significantly.
As IPL 2026 begins on March 28 and PSL 2026 starts on March 26, the scheduling clash is expected to remain a major talking point - especially if more players make late switches in the coming weeks.
