The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is set for an expansion, welcoming two fresh franchises that raise the total count from six to eight. This major decision was reached on Thursday, following a successful auction by the Pakistan Cricket Board.
Ownership of the new teams was secured by two business groups for a total of 12.75 million dollars, equivalent to roughly 114 crore rupees. OZ Developers, a real estate consortium, clinched the Sialkot franchise with a bid of 1.85 billion Pakistani rupees. Meanwhile, the Hyderabad team was purchased by the FKS Group from the United States for 1.75 billion Pakistani rupees.
The Hyderabad franchise's sale attracted attention, especially since its price nearly matches the combined Indian Premier League salaries of Indian cricketers Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant. Iyer's earnings stand at around 26.75 crore rupees, and Pant's at roughly 27 crore rupees, putting their total near the Hyderabad franchise’s purchase price. This comparison underscores the financial contrast between PSL team ownership and IPL player salaries.
Notwithstanding the addition of two teams, the cumulative cost for new PSL franchises is still below the sum of salaries for top players at the IPL 2026 auction, suggesting that while the PSL is expanding, it maintains a more sustainable financial framework.
The new season of the expanded league is scheduled to kick off on March 26. League officials are optimistic that the addition of these two teams will bolster competition, yield more player opportunities, and captivate audiences both in Pakistan and abroad.
The Multan Sultans will remain under the management of the Pakistan Cricket Board for this upcoming season, with plans for the team to be sold following the tournament in April. Former owner Ali Tareen had been given approval to compete in the bidding for new franchises but opted to withdraw just before the auction.
Ali Tareen confirmed his priorities remain focused on South Punjab, indicating he might consider returning when the Multan franchise becomes available again.
The successful auction signifies a growing confidence in the Pakistan Super League as a noteworthy T20 tournament. With new franchises, increased investment, and rising public interest, the PSL continues to bolster its standing in international cricket.
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