The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is grappling with scheduling conflicts once more, with clear signs that its 11th season may coincide with the Indian Premier League (IPL) in April and May 2025—mirroring the overlap experienced during the 10th edition. Such a clash has serious implications for player availability, broadcast rights, and the general commercial effect on the tournament.
Champions Trophy Pushes PSL to a New Window
Historically, PSL is held between February and March, but since Pakistan will host the ICC Champions Trophy in early 2025, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is being compelled to shift PSL to a later period. As a result, the tournament is now being considered for the April-May window, which would put it in direct competition with the IPL schedule.
World Cup 2025 Makes it More Difficult to Schedule
The ICC T20 World Cup 2025, set for February and March, adds another layer of complexity to the scheduling dilemma. With both Champions Trophy and T20 World Cup pushed into the first half of the year, PSL scheduling options are dwindling.
A plan to host PSL in December 2024 or January 2025 was under consideration, but logistical realities and outstanding operational issues have rendered it extremely unlikely. In the meantime, PCB plans to host a home-based Pentangular Cup, to include the nation’s best cricketers.
PSL’s Transition to an Independent Entity – Developments and Setbacks
Earlier this year, PCB announced the restructuring of PSL as a standalone commercial company. Salman Naseer has officially taken charge as the inaugural CEO of the newly formed PSL company. However other major positions in the company are still vacant, hampering the pace of strategic decision-making and implementation.
Franchise Valuations and Financial Adjustments
Having completed 10 successful seasons, the valuation of the current six franchises is in process. Following these valuations, a franchise fee increase of 25% is anticipated. Every team owner verbally confirmed last December in writing that they would remain owners of their respective franchises.
The one exception is Multan Sultans’ owner Ali Tareen, who on several occasions has articulated concerns regarding economic losses. He has not spoken much of late, fueling rumors regarding continuation or re-opening the team for bidding. Interestingly, Multan Sultans presently shell out more than PKR 1 billion every year, making them the costliest PSL franchise.
Expansion Plans Still on Hold
The PCB had earlier expressed plans to expand the PSL by adding two new teams starting from its 11th season. Yet, nothing has been done in this regard thus far, and the expansion has stagnated due to a lack of execution and planning.
Sponsorship and Broadcasting Arrangements Being Reviewed
Some key commercial agreements pertaining to PSL are also fast approaching expiration:
The decade-long title sponsorship deal is now due for renewal.
Independent agreements for ground sponsorship have to be established in 8–10 categories.
Both local and international broadcast rights must be renegotiated.
There is a search for a new live-streaming partner.
PCB currently receives around PKR 900 million in annual title sponsorship. Title streaming rights for Pakistan itself last year fetched almost PKR 1.8 billion, underscoring the financial interest involved with such partnerships.
Conclusion: Uncertainty Surrounds PSL’s Future
The 11th season of the Pakistan Super League is under serious doubt owing to concurrent global tournaments, outstanding logistical challenges, and outstanding commercial deals. Whereas PCB is determined to make the tournament a success, instantaneous efforts must be taken to clear these issues and ensure PSL’s longevity and expansion.
