Former England all-rounder David Willey revealed the reason why some foreign players are choosing the Pakistan Super League (PSL) over the Indian Premier League (IPL). The fast bowler said many cricketers feel that the PSL gives them ‘certainty’ and ‘security’ which the Indian event cannot provide.
The IPL has long been considered the world’s biggest T20 league, but preparations for the 2026 season have taken an unexpected twist. Many foreign players have opted for the Pakistan Super League, which has surprised many fans and observers. Faf du Plessis and Moeen Ali are ready to play the PSL 2026 season.
Many foreign stars chose PSL over IPL before the 2026 season
Many leading foreign names have surprised fans by choosing PSL over IPL ahead of the 2026 season. Faf du Plessis became the first big star to make the switch, followed by Moeen Ali.
Former Sunrisers Hyderabad captain David Warner and Kane Williamson remained unsold in the 2025 IPL auction before getting PSL deals. Josh Little and Mohammad Nabi also made a similar move. David Willey joined Pattern last year by skipping the IPL auction to play the entire season in the PSL.
Many international players prefer a guaranteed contract and regular game time in the PSL rather than risk going unsold in the IPL or spending long weeks on the bench.
There is a bit more certainty and security with the PSL – David Willey
David Willey talks openly about the growing debate about foreign players choosing PSL over IPL. Willey said many overseas cricketers prefer the PSL because they feel more certain about getting game time rather than risk going unsold in the IPL or spending weeks on the bench.
“I think it’s very individual. You probably never know how the IPL auction will go. I think with the PSL there is a little more certainty and security for the players,” Willey told Hindustan Times.
He added, “And, you know, depending on individual circumstances, people may feel like they’ve got more of an opportunity to actually play in the PSL rather than sitting on the sidelines for 10-11 weeks, which could be a deciding factor for people.”
IPL is something you won’t be able to experience anywhere else – David Willey
David Willey, who has played in the IPL, PSL and ILT20, shared a comparison of the three leagues. Willey said each competition challenges players in its own way, but he said the IPL stands out because of its unmatched depth of quality and the sheer scale of the tournament.
“They all present different challenges. You get different pitches and dew is a big factor here, similar to the PSL. In India, you have different types of wickets. The quality and depth of players in the IPL is phenomenal. Here, you have more overseas players in each team, and you also have to look at how you use your allies and local players, which is another challenge,” Willey said.
He said, “All three leagues have their own intricacies that make them interesting. But naturally, in India, the level and magnitude of the IPL is something you will not experience anywhere else in the game. It is a very special league.”
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