Think of PickXI as a live auction for cricket talent — except you are not bidding money. You and one opponent take turns claiming players. The moment you tap a name, that cricketer is locked out of your rival’s XI. That single rule is why PickXI feels different from traditional fantasy cricket.
1. Choose an upcoming cricket match
Open the app and pick a fixture from the daily list. Contests appear across T20 leagues and limited-overs internationals — IPL, BBL, PSL, CPL, SA20, ICC events, ODIs, and more. PickXI does not support Test matches. Choose a game you actually follow — draft skill rises when you know the conditions, bowling matchups, and likely roles.
2. Challenge a friend or match instantly
Start a private 1v1 if you want to settle a debate with a friend. If nobody is free, instant matchmaking pairs you with another cricket fan. Either way, it is always two unique teams, never a packed field of cloned XIs.
3. Draft your Playing XI live, before the match
The draft happens before play begins, not while the match is unfolding. You take turns selecting batters, bowlers, all-rounders, and a wicketkeeper. Because picks are exclusive, you must decide whether to grab a proven opener now or wait for a cheaper bowling option later.
4. Pick within 30 seconds
Each turn has a 30-second timer. If you do not select a player in time, that turn is skipped and the draft continues. The clock keeps the contest fair and fast: cricket knowledge matters, but so does a clear plan.
Can both of you pick the same player? No. Once a player is selected, they cannot be chosen again in that contest. There is no copying your opponent’s squad.
5. Track live fantasy scores
When the real match starts, points update from on-field performance. You watch your locked-in XI, not a template everyone else also owns. See the published scoring rules — the in-app table for a contest is always the source of truth. Every ball can swing the head-to-head because your rival has a completely different set of players.
6. The higher score wins
The Playing XI with the higher fantasy score wins the contest. Fantasy points are not money: PickXI has no entry fee and no prizes. Simple to learn, sharp to master — especially when you have denied your opponent the one batter who went on to play a match-winning knock.
Draft tips that actually help
- Decide your must-have names before the timer starts so you do not freeze on turn one.
- Do not only chase the most famous batter. Exclusive bowling and keeping options win plenty of 1v1s.
- If you know a pitch favours spin, lock that specialist before your opponent does.
- Missed a turn? Stay calm. The next pick can still unbalance their XI.
