Quetta Gladiators release Sarfaraz Ahmed ahead of PSL 10

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Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Quetta Gladiators has released their former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed, marking the end of a nine-year association.

For the first time, Sarfaraz will be part of the PSL draft. The team has retained eight players for PSL 10, excluding the veteran wicketkeeper-batsman.

The retained players include Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Amir (mentor), and Rilee Rossouw in the Diamond category; Akeal Hosein, Saud Shakeel (brand ambassador), and Mohammad Wasim Jr. in the Gold category; and Khwaja Mohammad Nafees and Usman Tariq in the Silver category.

Sarfaraz Ahmed, who captained Quetta Gladiators for several seasons, was quietly removed from captaincy during the last edition, with South Africa’s Rilee Rossouw taking over the leadership. His release from the team has now left fans questioning the franchise's decision.

The PSL 10 draft is scheduled for 11 January, with 510 players from 19 countries registered. The tournament will run from 8 April to 19 May.

Fans of Sarfaraz Ahmed expressed their disappointment over the Gladiators’ decision. Many took to social media to criticise the team’s treatment of the former skipper, highlighting his contributions and commitment to the franchise.

It remains to be seen which franchise picks Sarfaraz Ahmed in the upcoming draft.

Meanwhile, the six franchises of the PSL have confirmed their player retentions ahead of the upcoming HBL PSL 2025 Players Draft, scheduled for January 11.

Each franchise had the option to retain a maximum of eight players from their previous squad, with three franchises making full use of the opportunity, while Karachi Kings, Multan Sultans, and Peshawar Zalmi retained seven players each.

Defending champions Islamabad United, who are three-time PSL winners, have retained their captain Shadab Khan in the Platinum category, alongside fast bowler Naseem Shah.

Imad Wasim, also named as the team’s mentor, and Azam Khan were retained in the Diamond category, while Haider Ali and Salman Ali Agha have been retained in Gold. Colin Munro and Rumman Raees were kept in Silver.