PCB Seemingly Confirms That Some PSL Franchises Will Have New Owners. Big changes are coming to the Pakistan Super League (PSL). The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially confirmed that only “eligible franchises” will be part of the new PSL franchise agreements. This statement has sparked strong speculation that some PSL franchises could soon have new owners.
The announcement comes as the PCB prepares to launch a new 10-year franchise cycle, which will shape the next decade of Pakistan’s biggest cricket tournament.
PCB Prepares for PSL’s Next Decade
The PCB is entering the final stages of preparing new franchise contracts for the Pakistan Super League’s next phase. The first cycle, which began in 2015, will end in December 2025.
According to reports, the PCB has partnered with global accounting firm EY MENA to evaluate the league’s market value and help design the new agreements. Representatives from EY MENA met with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi in Lahore, along with PSL CEO Salman Naseer and COO Sumair Ahmed, to present the official PSL valuation report.
This report will serve as the foundation for new franchise fees and contract renewals. The meeting also discussed the future growth potential of the PSL, which continues to be one of Pakistan’s biggest sports success stories.
“Eligible Franchises” Clause Raises Eyebrows
While the PCB has emphasized transparency and fairness, its use of the term “eligible franchises” has drawn major attention. The phrase suggests that not all current teams are guaranteed to continue under their existing ownership.
This has fueled rumors that some PSL franchises may soon change owners. Reports point to ongoing tensions between the PCB and Multan Sultans, whose owner Ali Tareen is currently engaged in a legal dispute with the board.
Sources claim that Multan Sultans allegedly breached parts of their franchise agreement, and that the PCB might block the team from retaining its rights under the new contract — even if the current owner bids again.
If that happens, Multan Sultans could become the first franchise to change ownership since PSL began.
PSL Expansion: From Six to Eight Teams
In another major development, the PCB confirmed that PSL will expand from six to eight teams under the new franchise structure.
This will mark the biggest expansion since the league’s launch in 2015. The addition of two new teams will bring more competition, new fan bases, and greater commercial opportunities for sponsors and broadcasters.
The expansion also reflects the PSL’s growing popularity not only in Pakistan but across the cricket world. New cities are already being considered for team placement, though official names have not yet been announced.
New Contract Model and Valuation
The new franchise contracts will be designed using the independent valuation report provided by EY MENA. This approach is meant to ensure transparency, fairness, and competitiveness across all teams.
Reports indicate that each franchise will be required to pay a 25% markup over the new valuation to retain their team rights for the next 10 years.
If any current owner refuses to pay the revised amount, their ownership could be terminated — opening the door for new investors to join the PSL.
This could lead to multiple ownership changes, not just for Multan Sultans but potentially for other teams as well.
Why the Change Matters
This move signals a major shift in how the PSL will operate going forward. The PCB aims to modernize the league’s business structure, increase profitability, and align it with global standards followed by leagues such as the Indian Premier League (IPL) and Big Bash League (BBL).
By bringing in new investors and expanding to more teams, the PCB hopes to:
- Increase the league’s total revenue.
- Improve broadcasting rights and sponsorship deals.
- Promote new cricketing regions in Pakistan.
- Enhance player development and fan engagement.
The changes could also bring more accountability and financial discipline to team owners, ensuring long-term sustainability for Pakistan’s premier cricket league.
Legal Challenges Could Delay the Process
Despite the positive outlook, the transition may not be smooth. Legal disputes — especially those involving Multan Sultans — could slow down the process of finalizing the new agreements.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has directed officials to meet all franchise owners and resolve issues “as soon as possible,” but with contracts expiring in December 2025, time is running short.
Experts say the board must handle the process carefully to avoid controversies that could damage the PSL’s global reputation.
What’s Next for PSL Fans
For cricket fans, the coming months promise excitement and uncertainty. With possible new owners, new teams, and a fresh 10-year cycle, PSL 2026 and beyond could look very different.
However, one thing is clear: the PCB wants to ensure that the Pakistan Super League continues to grow as a global cricket brand. The league’s success over the past decade has made it a cornerstone of Pakistan’s sports identity, and the next chapter could be even bigger.
Conclusion
The Pakistan Cricket Board’s latest statement confirms that the PSL is entering a major transformation phase. The combination of new ownership possibilities, team expansion, and market-based contracts marks the start of a new era for the league.
While questions remain about “eligible franchises” and potential legal hurdles, the next 10 years of the Pakistan Super League promise growth, competition, and opportunities like never before.
