PSL Expansion Gathers Pace: Multan Sultans Auction Likely After Season

LAHORE: Preparations for the 11th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) have begun, with Multan Sultans set to enter a new phase following the exit of former owner Ali Khan Tareen.

The development comes as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) moves forward with plans to expand the league, with the auction of two new PSL franchises scheduled for January 8. The move has further heightened excitement among cricket fans and potential investors ahead of PSL 11.

According to reports, Ali Khan Tareen may still have the opportunity to return to the league by bidding for one of the new franchises, should he choose to do so. The PCB has reportedly kept the door open for his participation despite past disputes.

Meanwhile, the auction of the Multan Sultans franchise is expected to take place after the conclusion of PSL 11, adding further uncertainty around the team’s long-term ownership.

In the interim, the PCB has announced the management setup for Multan Sultans for the upcoming season, following a prolonged disagreement with Tareen. His contract was not renewed after he publicly criticised league management and raised concerns over governance and transparency.

Read More: Ali Tareen quits Multan Sultans after PCB dispute

Multan Sultans remain one of the PSL’s most valuable franchises, having won the title in 2021 and featuring in multiple finals since their inclusion in the league.

To ensure smooth operations during the transition period, the PCB will appoint an interim head — preferably a former professional cricketer — to oversee the franchise until permanent ownership is decided through an auction after the season.

The PSL is set to expand to eight teams in 2026, with the upcoming franchise auction marking a key step in the league’s growth. The January 8 sale of two new teams is expected to be a landmark moment, with strong interest anticipated from both local and overseas investors.