A growing number of overseas players are weighing options between the Indian Premier League and the Pakistan Super League this season, with decisions driven by playing opportunities, pay structures and the length of the tournaments.
Australia leg-spinner Adam Zampa opted out of the IPL auction after being released by Sunrisers Hyderabad.
Zampa, who has featured in five IPL seasons but played only 22 matches, cited concerns over limited returns for his role and the time commitment required for the tournament.
In the PSL, Zampa has joined Karachi Kings, where he has had regular game time in the season.
Specialist overseas spinners have often found fewer opportunities in the IPL due to team combinations, with franchises preferring batters, all-rounders and fast bowlers within the four-player overseas limit.
South Africa's former captain Faf du Plessis has also chosen the PSL this year after deciding not to enter the IPL auction following 14 seasons in the tournament.
His move reflected a shift among senior players looking for shorter commitments and different roles.
Several players have moved in the opposite direction.
Zimbabwe pacer Blessing Muzarabani switched from a PSL contract with Islamabad United to join Kolkata Knight Riders as a replacement for Mustafizur Rahman.
Sri Lanka all-rounder Dasun Shanaka is set to link up with Rajasthan Royals, leaving his PSL stint with Lahore Qalandars to replace the injured Sam Curran.
Australia fast bowler Spencer Johnson also withdrew from the PSL, where he had signed with Quetta Gladiators, before being picked up by Chennai Super Kings as a replacement for Nathan Ellis.
The overlap between the two leagues has played a role in these decisions.
The IPL is scheduled to run until May 31, while the PSL concludes on May 3, leaving players to choose between the tournaments.
While the IPL continues to offer higher contracts and wider exposure, the PSL’s shorter duration and clearer roles have drawn interest from players seeking regular game time.