The anticipation for the ninth season of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) has reached its zenith as franchises are concluding their player retentions ahead of the upcoming draft.

Among the notable developments is the buzz surrounding the Pakistan pacer Naseem Shah, who is reportedly parting ways with the Quetta Gladiators.

Several franchises, including Islamabad United, Multan Sultans, and Peshawar Zalmi, have expressed interest in acquiring the 20-year-old fast bowler, engaging in active social media campaigns.

Javed Afridi, the chairman of Peshawar Zalmi, posted an Instagram story hinting at a franchise making demands to trade three players – Saim Ayub, Haseebullah, and Mohammad Haris – in exchange for Naseem Shah.

Addressing a circulating rumor, Nabeel Hashmi, the Head of Player Acquisition and Media for Quetta Gladiators, took to social media platform 'X' to dismiss such claims. Hashmi clarified that such an "unreasonable demand" couldn't be made by any franchise.

It has been reported that Naseem is likely to join Islamabad United, with a deal reportedly settled at 90%. The agreement marks the end of Naseem's association with the Quetta Gladiators.

In the midst of these developments, sources have revealed that the Gladiators are eyeing hard-hitting batter Azam Khan as a replacement for Naseem Shah. Additionally, there are indications that Mohammad Wasim Jr might be traded to the Gladiators.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had previously opened the registration window for foreign players, and the flagship event is tentatively scheduled from February 8 to March 24, 2024.

Franchises will submit relegation requests for players before finalizing retentions. The PSL 9 Draft is expected to take place in mid-December, immediately following the conclusion of the National T20 Cup.