LAHORE (Dunya News) – Pakistan Under-19 cricket star Sameer Minhas was snapped up by Islamabad United for Rs19 million after a competitive bidding contest during the Pakistan Super League players auction in Lahore, where more than 800 local and foreign cricketers are registered.
The auction, being held at the Expo Centre Lahore, is forming team squads of 16 to 20 players each. The event opened with a major signing as Islamabad United secured all-rounder Faheem Ashraf for Rs85 million, setting an early benchmark for high-value picks.
Sameer Minhas, an opening batter from Multan, has emerged as one of the most exciting young prospects in Pakistan cricket after a record-breaking Under-19 campaign. His recent performances in youth one-day internationals drew strong attention from franchises ahead of the auction.
Record knock
Minhas made headlines by scoring a century off just 42 balls in the final of a one-day tri-series between Pakistan and Zimbabwe Under-19 sides. The knock is regarded as the fastest hundred in youth ODI cricket history.
He followed that with another standout performance against India Under-19 in a final, scoring 172 runs from 113 balls. The innings featured an exceptional number of boundaries and helped him set a Pakistan Under-19 record for most runs scored through fours and sixes in a single youth ODI innings.
Tournament star
Over the course of the tournament, Minhas accumulated 447 runs and was named Player of the Tournament for his consistent and match-winning contributions at the top of the order. His aggressive stroke play and ability to accelerate quickly made him one of the most talked-about young batters going into the PSL auction.
His rising profile triggered a bidding war between Quetta Gladiators and Islamabad United during the auction. After several rounds of competitive offers, Islamabad United secured the young opener for Rs19 million.
PSL 11 auction
The PSL players auction marks a significant moment for the league, with hundreds of domestic and overseas players available for selection. Franchises are actively reshaping their line-ups and investing in a mix of established internationals and emerging local talent.
Faheem Ashraf’s Rs85 million signing by Islamabad United as the first major pick underscored the aggressive approach teams are taking this season. The swift move for Sameer Minhas shortly afterwards highlighted the growing value franchises are placing on youth performers with proven records at international junior level.
With his record-breaking Under-19 achievements and strong tournament numbers, Sameer Minhas now steps into the franchise spotlight with high expectations for the upcoming PSL season.