The debate between the Indian Premier League and the Pakistan Super League has once again gained attention after Adam Zampa opened up on why he opted for the PSL over the IPL this season. The Australian leg-spinner, who went unsold in the 2026 IPL auction after being released by Sunrisers Hyderabad, revealed that both financial factors and the long duration of the IPL influenced his decision.
Zampa, who has previously represented teams like Royal Challengers Bangalore, Rajasthan Royals, and Rising Pune Supergiant, has been a familiar name in the league over the years. However, things changed this season.
After going unsold, the 34-year-old shifted his focus to the PSL, where he was picked by Karachi Kings for PKR 4.5 crore.
Zampa made an immediate impact, playing a key role in Karachi Kings’ four-wicket win over Lahore Qalandars at the Gaddafi Stadium with his spell of 2/11 in four overs earning the Player of the Match honour.
Why did Adam Zampa choose PSL over IPL?
Speaking before the game in an interview, Zampa explained his reasoning behind chosing PSL over IPL. “Yeah, well, I wasn’t really on the radar. I pulled out of the IPL this year. To be brutally honest, someone with my skill set doesn’t usually attract that kind of money,” he said.
🚨 I Chose PSL over IPL; Adam Zampa
Someone with my skill set just don’t get the money and the amount of time IPL takes, IPL didn’t seem a reasonable choice for me so PSL was on my radar and I’m enjoying it. #PSL2026 #TATAIPL #PBKSvsGT pic.twitter.com/FyaWCafbvt
— Tehseen Qasim (@Tehseenqasim) March 31, 2026
He also pointed out the demanding nature of the IPL schedule, “Considering the time commitment the IPL requires, it didn’t feel like a reasonable choice for me to continue playing it.” IPL takes 70 days while PSL is a 40-day tournament.
Initially, Zampa had planned to take a break after going unsold in the IPL auction. However, the PSL opportunity came at the right time. “I was planning to take a break, but then the PSL came into the picture a month later. It all happened pretty quickly, but I’m enjoying it,” he added.
One of the leading white-ball spinners in world cricket, Zampa boasts an impressive record. He has taken 139 wickets in T20 Internationals at an average of 20.99, while his overall T20 tally stands at 401 wickets in 323 matches at an average of 21.39. In the IPL, he has featured in 22 matches, picking up 31 wickets.
