PCB issues termination notice to T20 franchise ahead of PSL 11 expansion

In a major shake-up in Pakistan’s T20 landscape, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued a formal termination notice to the owners of Multan Sultans, signaling the potential end of the franchise’s long-standing association with the league at the conclusion of PSL 10. The move comes amid growing tensions over franchise renewal policies and revenue-sharing structures, leaving the Sultans’ future in limbo.

Multan Sultans, under the ownership of Ali Tareen since 2018, have been one of the most successful teams in PSL history. The franchise has qualified for the playoffs every season since its debut, winning one championship in 2021 (PSL 6) and finishing as runners-up four times, including in PSL 10 earlier this year. Stars like Mohammad Rizwan, Shane Watson, Rilee Rossouw, and David Miller have donned the Sultans jersey, making the team a powerhouse in the league.

However, financial strain has plagued the franchise. Multan Sultans was acquired in 2017 for a record $5.2 million per season, significantly higher than original PSL teams like Lahore Qalandars and Karachi Kings. Under PCB rules, renewing owners must pay their original fee plus 25% or match a new market valuation, pushing Multan’s renewal cost beyond $6.5 million annually. Tareen has openly criticized the economics, noting the franchise has not been profitable under these terms and opting not to renew. Instead, he plans to rebid in a fresh auction, hoping for a more sustainable deal.

PCB Prepares for PSL 11 Expansion as Multan Sultans’ Future Hangs in the Balance

The PCB, chaired by Mohsin Naqvi, emphasized fairness and transparency in the rebidding process, particularly as PSL prepares to expand with two new teams for its 11th season. While the board sees Tareen’s exit as a chance to attract fresh investment, questions remain about player retention, especially for stars like Rizwan and Iftikhar Ahmed.

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Fans have expressed outrage over the potential upheaval, with #SaveMultanSultans trending on social media. The Sultans’ passionate fan base considers the team a symbol of Punjab pride, reflecting the energy and excitement the franchise brings to the league.

As PSL 10 nears its conclusion, the franchise’s final season under Tareen unfolds, with the team chasing playoff glory. Meanwhile, the off-season auction will determine whether the Sultans remain in Tareen’s hands or enter a new chapter in PSL history.

Multan Sultans Legacy:

• PSL Debut: PSL 3
• Championships: 1 (2021)
• Runner-up Finishes: 4
• Notable Players: Mohammad Rizwan, Shane Watson, David Miller, Rilee Rossouw