Pakistan Super League (PSL) could soon witness one of the biggest transformations in its history. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unofficially confirmed that preparations for the new 10-year franchise cycle are in the final stages, and ownership changes among existing teams are expected.
PCB Confirms Only “Eligible Franchises” Will Continue
In a recent statement, the PCB indicated that only “eligible franchises” will be part of the upcoming contracts. This has sparked speculation that some current PSL franchises may not retain their ownership under the new structure. The development has come amid reports of tension between the PCB and certain team owners, particularly Multan Sultans, who have been accused of violating clauses in their existing agreement.
This clarification by the board suggests that strict evaluation and compliance checks will determine which franchises qualify for renewal in the next cycle.
EY MENA Presents PSL Valuation Report
According to the PCB, a high-level meeting was held in Lahore between Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and representatives from EY MENA, a global accounting firm. During the meeting, the firm presented the long-awaited PSL Valuation Report, which will serve as the foundation for the new franchise agreements.
The meeting was also attended by PSL CEO Salman Naseer, PCB COO Sameer Ahmed, and members of the EY MENA team. The firm briefed the board on the current market assessment, financial performance, and growth outlook of the PSL, providing a detailed analysis of the league’s commercial strength.
Mohsin Naqvi Directs Officials to Finalize New Contracts Soon
Following the presentation, Chairman Naqvi instructed PCB officials to meet all franchise owners and finalize new agreements “as soon as possible.” The contracts of the six existing franchises are set to expire in December 2025, marking the end of the PSL’s first 10-year commercial cycle since its inception in 2015.
This transition represents a significant milestone for the league, which has evolved into one of the top T20 competitions globally. The new phase aims to strengthen financial transparency, attract global investors, and ensure long-term sustainability.
PSL Expansion: Two New Teams Expected
One of the key takeaways from the PCB’s statement is the plan to expand the number of teams from six to eight in the upcoming cycle. This would mark the biggest expansion since the league’s launch and reflects the growing popularity and commercial potential of the PSL.
The addition of two new franchises is expected to bring fresh rivalries, new fan bases, and increased revenue opportunities through sponsorships and broadcasting rights.
Valuation-Based Model for Transparency and Fairness
The PCB confirmed that the new franchise values will be determined entirely based on EY MENA’s independent valuation report, ensuring a fair and transparent process. The goal is to avoid conflicts and maintain healthy competition among team owners.
This move signals a more professional and globally aligned business approach for the PSL, positioning it alongside major leagues like the IPL, BBL, and CPL in terms of governance and financial integrity.
What This Means for PSL’s Future
The upcoming months could bring major ownership reshuffles, particularly if certain teams fail to meet eligibility requirements. However, the introduction of new franchises and a data-driven valuation system suggests that the PCB is committed to modernizing the league’s structure.
If executed properly, this new cycle could elevate the PSL’s global profile and attract higher investment from both local and international stakeholders.
