PCB fast-tracks sale of Multan Sultans amid rising PSL investor interest

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken a major step regarding the future of Multan Sultans, deciding to sell the franchise immediately rather than waiting until next year, sources have confirmed.

The decision comes amid growing investor interest in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). During the recent auction process for the new franchises of Hyderabad and Sialkot, the PCB reportedly received strong indications of interest in Multan Sultans as well, prompting the board to accelerate the sale process.

According to sources, the auction of Multan Sultans will now be held before the upcoming PSL season. The PCB is expected to issue an official advertisement for the auction in the coming days, inviting qualified bidders to participate. The sale will be conducted under the same procedure adopted for the Hyderabad and Sialkot franchises.

The move is aimed at strengthening the PCB financially, with officials believing that an immediate sale could attract competitive bids given the current momentum around the league.

This development follows a period of transition for the franchise. Earlier, the PCB had announced it would take over the operations of Multan Sultans for PSL 11 after franchise owner Ali Tareen chose not to renew his ownership contract, ending his seven-year association with the team.

Tareen publicly cited differences with PSL management and other franchise owners as the reason for his exit, describing Multan Sultans as one of the greatest honours of his life. He emphasised the team’s identity as a symbol of South Punjab and stressed that his decision was based on principles rather than financial considerations.

To ensure continuity ahead of PSL 11, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed that the board would temporarily run Multan Sultans. At the time, the PCB had indicated plans to auction the franchise after the season, but the latest decision signals a shift towards an earlier sale.

Meanwhile, the players’ draft for the upcoming season of PSL is likely to be held on January 30.