PSL Teams Revolt Against PCB In Recent Clashes

With the contracts between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and all six Pakistan Super League teams scheduled to expire at the end of the current season, the ongoing PSL 2025 has become mired in a fresh conflict that might result in significant changes in the future.

After reevaluating the PSL's worth, the PCB is anticipated to provide existing teams an opportunity to participate in the competition. However, according to Cricket Pakistan, there will probably be a minimum 25% increase in franchise payments.

Tension has already been raised by the impending development, particularly for Multan Sultans, the costliest team in the Pakistan Super League.

Owner Of Multan Sultans Issues A Warning As The PCB Prepares To Raise Franchise Payments

Multan Sultans have been losing money despite paying the PCB an enormous PKR 1.08 billion per year as a franchise fee. Ali Tareen, the owner of the Multan franchise, has long been dissatisfied with the PSL's PCB-imposed revenue scheme.

Tareen has voiced concerns even prior to the commencement of the current PSL 2025, and his latest fury has drawn a lot of attention.

Speaking at a gathering in Multan, Tareen made a suggestion that his team might think about withdrawing and placing a new offer if the amount goes up.

According to the PCB sources, Tareen's statement caught them off guard because all six clubs had previously decided to stay in the PSL despite the fee increases.

PSL faces new price tag challenge

Sources have suggested that Ali Tareen might be attempting to pressure the PCB either to refrain from increasing fees or to address a larger issue. However, the PCB remains resolute in its position. Cricket Pakistan reports that there is no possibility of a fee reduction for the upcoming Pakistan Super League cycle.

Following the valuation, an increase in fees has been confirmed. Granting a discount to one team would prompt similar demands from others, a scenario the PCB is determined to avoid at all costs.

Should the Multan Sultans withdraw, they would have to undergo the bidding process again. However, it is unclear whether Tareen would be permitted to participate in the ownership race for the PSL a second time.

Meanwhile, many have questioned the PCB’s silence regarding Tareen’s public and bold statement.

PCB doesn’t want to devalue Pakistan Super League

Sources suggest that the revised valuation could escalate the Multan Sultans' franchise fee to an astonishing PKR 1.5 billion per year. This significant increase has reportedly led to concerns being raised by the owner.

With figures this substantial in play, the Pakistan Super League now faces the challenge of selling two new teams at even higher prices, potentially exceeding PKR 2 billion each.

However, considering the current economic climate, finding buyers willing to invest such hefty sums may prove to be a daunting task.

Speculation indicates that if Multan Sultans’ fee is either reduced or kept unchanged, it could make the new teams more affordable, possibly around the PKR 1 billion range.

This is precisely why the board opposes such a move. They have firmly stated that the Pakistan Super League will not be undervalued merely to facilitate easier sales, and there is no intention to lower standards for anyone.

A source within the PCB remarked, “Why should we devalue our league? Those hoping to acquire a franchise at a bargain price will be disappointed. Numerous parties, both domestic and international, are eager to join the PSL.”

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