Multan Sultans Exit PSL as Former Owners Plan New Franchise Bid

Overview

Multan Sultans will officially exit the Pakistan Super League after their franchise agreement expires on December 31. In a surprising development, the Tareen Group has submitted documents to bid for a new PSL team, while the PCB prepares for the auction of two new franchises ahead of the 2026 season.

Ali Tareen during a media appearance discussing PSL franchise matters.
Image Source: Instagram/@aslitareen —Edited & Modified by Us

The Multan Sultans franchise will officially part ways with the Pakistan Super League (PSL) after their agreement expires on December 31. The exit marks the end of a controversial chapter and the beginning of a surprising new one the former owners are now preparing to bid for a brand new PSL franchise.

This unexpected move has reshaped discussions around the league expansion and ownership structure.

Contract Ends, Relationship Officially Over

The Multan Sultans franchise agreement will formally expire on December 31, ending the team association with the PSL. The franchise owner, Ali Tareen, has been openly critical of PSL management and governance for months.

Through podcasts, interviews, and social media, he questioned the league structure and raised concerns about transparency. When the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) issued a notice, Tareen publicly tore it up in a video, further escalating tensions.

As a result, while five other franchises renewed their contracts at revised fees, Multan Sultans failed to reach an agreement with the PCB.

Ali Tareen Stand and Public Reaction

Ali Tareen stated that he preferred to walk away with dignity rather than continue under pressure. He confirmed sending an official email to authorities, reinforcing his position.

According to sources, the PCB asked him to issue an unconditional apology and delete critical social media posts. Tareen declined, leading to a complete breakdown in negotiations.

Tareen Group Enters New Franchise Bidding

Despite the separation, the Tareen Group has submitted official documents to participate in the bidding process for new franchises.

Out of 12 interested companies, the Tareen Group is among those seeking technical qualification. If approved, they will be allowed to participate in the open auction scheduled for January 8 at the Islamabad Convention Centre.

Under PSL rules, current franchise owners cannot bid for new teams. However after December 31, the Tareen Group will no longer officially be franchise owners, making them eligible.

Financial Landscape of New PSL Teams

Multan Sultans was the most expensive PSL franchise, paying approximately PKR 1.08 billion annually. Following valuation by a foreign firm, its estimated value increased to PKR 1.35 billion.

New franchises are expected to sell for between PKR 1.25 and 1.5 billion. Each successful bidder must pay a non refundable USD 1 million upfront fee.

Global Interest in PSL Expansion

Bidders from Pakistan, the USA, Australia, Canada, and the UAE have shown interest. Participants include companies from sectors such as:

• Mobile technology
• Solar energy
• Real estate
• Investment groups
• Business consortiums

The initial results of technical qualification will be announced shortly.

New Franchise Cities and Ownership Terms

Two new franchises will be sold with 10 year ownership rights from 2026 to 2035.

Possible host cities include:

• Faisalabad
• Rawalpindi
• Hyderabad
• Sialkot
• Muzaffarabad
• Gilgit

Bidders may suggest alternative names, subject to PCB approval.

PSL 11 and Multan Sultans Future

PSL Season 11 will run from March 26 to May 3, 2026, and will feature eight teams for the first time.

Multan Sultans was originally introduced in 2017 as the league sixth team. After an early ownership termination in 2018, the Tareen family acquired the franchise later that year. Ali Tareen resumed control in 2023 after the passing of his father.

The PCB has not yet decided whether it will manage Multan Sultans temporarily or sell the team again through a separate bidding process.

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