Former Australia's star batter David Warner, who surprisingly went unsold in the recent IPL 2025 mega-auction, has taken a big step by registering for the Pakistan Super League (PSL) draft. Notably, this will be his maiden entry into the PSL draft.
David Warner registers for PSL draft
Interestingly, Warner was previously offered an opportunity to play in the 2019 PSL following his ban, but he didn't consider that option then. However, six years later, he has now decided to explore the PSL, aligning his playing schedule with the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Warner's base price in the IPL auction was set at Rs 2 crore, but he failed to attract any bids from the franchises. His snub in IPL 2025 auction, might have triggered his decision to explore other options for competitive cricket.
Talking about his IPL journey, Warner's association with the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) ended on a tumultuous note during the 2021 IPL season. He was removed from the captaincy and subsequently dropped from the playing XI. Following this, Warner joined the Delhi Capitals in the 2022 IPL mega-auction, embarking on a three-year stint with the franchise. He even captained the team in the 2023 season.
Given his recent snub in the IPL 2025 auction, it appears that Warner's IPL career may be nearing its conclusion. However, this could pave the way for him to become a regular feature in the Pakistan Super League. Currently, Warner is actively involved in the ongoing Big Bash League 2024/25 season, representing the Sydney Thunder.
David Warner has retired from international cricket, focusing solely on franchise cricket. The former Australian vice-captain boasts an illustrious international career encompassing 112 Test matches, 161 ODIs, and 110 T20Is.
Warner played a pivotal role in Australia's triumphs at the 2015 and 2023 ODI World Cups. He also contributed significantly to the team's victory in the 2023 World Test Championship. Furthermore, he was an integral part of the Australian team that clinched the T20 World Cup title for the first time in 2021.
David Warner is a prolific run-scorer in the history of the Indian Premier League, amassing 6565 runs in 184 matches at an impressive average of 40.52 and a strike rate of approximately 140. He has consistently demonstrated his class with 62 half-centuries and 4 centuries to his name. Notably, Warner led the Sunrisers Hyderabad to their sole IPL title in 2016, defeating the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the final.
Top franchises will have their eyes set on Warner during the PSL draft. This move could attract considerable attention, as it will see him competing in Asia while the marquee players are engaged in the IPL.