Islamabad United’s PSL 11 squad announcement was meant to signal ambition. Instead, it has sparked growing questions about whether West Indies fast bowler Shamar Joseph has quietly been released before the season even begins.
The three-time champions had secured Joseph during the historic Pakistan Super League 2026 player auction, but his name is now absent from the franchise’s updated squad list. The development has fueled speculation that the pacer is no longer part of Islamabad United’s plans for PSL 11.
Class of 2026. Squad locked. 🔒🦁
What do you think, Sherus? Drop some ❤️ if you’re loving our picks!#UnitedWeWin #RedHoTSquad #DimaghSe #HBLPSL11 #NewEra pic.twitter.com/z8ot92DPBm
— Islamabad United (@IsbUnited) February 12, 2026
Shamar Joseph missing from updated PSL 11 squad
Islamabad United were among the busiest teams at the first full auction-based PSL draft held on February 11 at the Expo Centre Lahore. The franchise assembled what appeared to be a balanced squad blending international firepower and domestic depth.
Joseph was picked for PKR 1.10 crore (approx. US$39K) as part of an effort to bolster the pace attack with overseas experience.
However, the franchise later shared its updated “Class of 2026” squad graphic on social media, and Joseph’s name was notably absent. The revised list features 17 players instead of the originally announced 18.
In addition, the individual announcement post welcoming Joseph to the franchise has been removed from Islamabad United’s official platforms.
No formal statement has been issued by the franchise clarifying his status.
Backlash and reports of parting ways
Reports suggest the franchise reconsidered its decision following strong public reaction linked to allegations made against the player in 2025.
Joseph was accused last year of rape, sexual assault, harassment, and unwanted advances by at least 11 women, including a teenage relative. The allegations were widely covered in regional Caribbean media and later reported internationally. To date, no formal criminal charges have been filed.
Negative fan reaction emerged soon after Islamabad United confirmed his signing at the auction. Social media criticism mounted rapidly, with many supporters questioning the move.
It is understood that the franchise opted to distance itself amid mounting pressure, although it has not publicly detailed its reasoning.
Context from PSL 11 auction and squad build
PSL 11 marks a significant structural shift for the league, which expanded to eight teams with the addition of Hyderabad Houston Kingsmen and Sialkot Stallionz. The tournament is scheduled to run from March 26 to May 3.
Islamabad United retained key names including Shadab Khan, Salman Irshad, and Andries Gous, while also making headline acquisitions. Faheem Ashraf was secured for PKR 8.50 crores, one of the highest bids at the auction. Other notable overseas additions included Devon Conway and Mark Chapman.
The franchise’s originally listed squad also included players such as Mohammad Wasim Jr (PKR 4.10 crores), Max Bryant (PKR 1.95 crores), Khurram Shahzad (PKR 2.70 crores), Imad Wasim (PKR 2.2 crores), Richard Gleeson (PKR 1.1 crores), Haider Ali (PKR 1.50 crores), Mohammad Hasnain (PKR 77.5 lacs), and Dipendra Singh Airee (PKR 60 lacs).
Joseph’s absence from the updated roster, therefore, stands out against an otherwise stable squad framework.
Shamar Joseph’s international rise and franchise career
The 26-year-old fast bowler rose to prominence during West Indies’ historic Test victory at the Gabba in 2024, where he produced match-defining spells. In 11 Test matches, Joseph has taken 51 wickets.
He has also established himself in the T20I format, claiming 19 wickets in 17 T20I matches at an average of 28.11 and an economy rate of 9.21, with best figures of 3/30.
In franchise cricket, Joseph represented Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL and was re-signed for ₹75 lakhs (approx. US$83K) at the 2025 auction.
Earlier in the PSL, he had been picked by Peshawar Zalmi as a partial replacement for England’s Gus Atkinson during PSL 9 but did not feature in any matches due to a toe injury sustained during West Indies’ Test win in Australia.
Silence leaves uncertainty ahead of PSL 11
With no official clarification from Islamabad United, the removal of Joseph’s announcement post and his absence from the updated 17-player squad remain the clearest indicators of his likely release.
