‘IPL Wasn’t Worth It’: Adam Zampa Explains Bold ₹1.5CR Decision to Choose PSL

Australian leg-spinner Adam Zampa has opened up on his decision to skip the IPL 2026 season and instead feature in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), citing financial imbalance and time commitment as the key reasons behind his choice.

Zampa, who was signed by Karachi Kings for PKR 4.5 crore (approx ₹1.5 cr) after entering the PSL auction with a base price of PKR 4.2 crore, opted for the PSL following his absence from the IPL 2026 auction shortlist.

Zampa cites financial imbalance as main reason for IPL decision

Speaking about his decision, Zampa admitted that the financial structure in the IPL does not always favour players with his skill set, especially considering the length of the tournament.

"I pulled out of the IPL this year. To be brutally honest, for someone with my skill set, I just don't get the money that is there for other skill sets," Zampa said.

"And for the amount of time that the IPL takes, it just didn't seem like a reasonable choice for me to keep playing it."

Zampa clarified that his decision was not due to a lack of interest in the IPL but rather a practical choice based on value for time and financial return.

Initially, the Australian spinner had planned to take a break from competitive cricket. However, an opportunity to join the PSL changed his plans at short notice.

"I was going to have a break, but PSL was on the radar about a month ago. It's all happened pretty quickly, but I'm enjoying it," he added.

PSL opportunity came at the right time

Zampa joined Karachi Kings ahead of the 2026 PSL season and has already made an impact with the ball. The leg-spinner has taken three wickets in his first two matches, showing signs of settling quickly into the tournament.

He also spoke positively about the level of competition in the PSL, highlighting the strength of bowling attacks across teams.

"Looking at the team we played against, you can see the names in their squad and the quality, particularly of their bowling attack. It's almost an international-quality bowling attack," Zampa said.

The Australian leg-spinner added that even relatively modest targets in the PSL can become challenging due to the strength of bowling units.

Zampa praises Shaheen Afridi after recent PSL clash

Zampa also singled out Pakistan pacer Shaheen Afridi as one of the bowlers he enjoys watching the most.

"One player I really enjoy watching is Shaheen Afridi. I played against him yesterday. He bowled really well and took four wickets. It always feels like something exciting is happening whenever he's bowling," Zampa said.

He also acknowledged his friendship with fellow pacer Haris Rauf, noting the depth of talent present in the PSL.

"Haris Rauf is also a good friend of mine, and I play with him quite a bit. There are a lot of good cricketers around, but if I had to pick, I'd say I enjoy watching Shaheen the most," he added.

Strong international record underlines Zampa's value

Despite skipping IPL 2026, Zampa remains one of Australia's most experienced white-ball bowlers. He has taken 196 wickets in One-Day Internationals and more than 100 wickets in T20 Internationals, establishing himself as a key figure in Australia's limited-overs setup.

His move to the PSL highlights a growing trend among players weighing financial returns, tournament schedules, and role clarity when choosing franchise leagues.

With strong performances already under his belt for Karachi Kings, Zampa's PSL stint could further strengthen his case as one of the most effective leg-spinners in modern white-ball cricket.