Smith, De Villiers in Platinum category for PSL4 draft

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) on Thursday revealed the list of foreign players who will be up for grabs in the Platinum category during the draft for the fourth edition.

As per details, some of the big names of international cricket including former South Africa captain AB de Villiers, former Australia captain Steve Smith and New Zealand’s hard-hitting opener Colin Munro are in the list for the draft.

This will be the first time when De Villiers and Smith will take part in the PSL.

The full list includes De Villiers, Smith, Brendon McCullum, Chris Lynn, Munro, Sunil Narine, Kieron Pollard, Dwayne Bravo, Luke Ronchi, Mitchell McClenaghan, Rashid Khan, Thisara Perera, Shane Watson, Colin Ingram and Imran Tahir.

Talking about the experience of playing in the tournament, Multan Sultans all-rounder Pollard revealed that he has always enjoyed taking part in the PSL. "PSL is an extremely competitive tournament," said Pollard. "Whenever availability permits, I always look forward to playing in the PSL.”

Lahore Qalandars’ off-spinner Narine believes next edition will be the most competitive one so far. "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the PSL in all these seasons," said Narine. "The next year should be even bigger and better with such an impressive player roster."

Islamabad United wicketkeeper-batsman Luke Ronchi, who was PSL3’s player of the tournament, also showed excitement for the upcoming edition.

"I had a phenomenal run with the Pakistan Super League last year and I can't wait to get back into action," said Ronchi. "I loved the hospitality of the people when we played in Karachi and we managed to create some very special memories by lifting the trophy last year.”

The fourth edition of the league will begin from February 14 in the UAE, whereas the draft is expected to take place in November.