Ali Tareen Withdraws as PSL Adds Two New Franchises

News Desk 

Islamabad: The Pakistan Super League (PSL) reached a historic milestone on Thursday as the auction for two new franchises concluded at the Jinnah Convention Centre, officially expanding the league from six to eight teams ahead of its 11th season in 2026.

In a surprise development shortly before the proceedings began, former Multan Sultans owner Ali Tareen announced that he and his family would not participate in the bidding process.

Sharing his decision on social media, Tareen said, “After much thought, my family and I have decided not to take part in today’s PSL franchise auction.”

He added that his tenure with Multan Sultans had been more than owning a cricket team—it had been a dedication to South Punjab. “If I ever return to the PSL, it will be for the same purpose. South Punjab is close to my heart and is my home,” he said.

Tareen confirmed he would still be present in stadiums this year, cheering for the players and celebrating with fans, and expressed readiness to re-enter the league should the Multan team go up for sale again.

With Tareen’s withdrawal, nine bidders remained in the running for the two new franchises, set to represent cities from Rawalpindi, Hyderabad, Faisalabad, Gilgit, Muzaffarabad, and Sialkot.

Hyderabad Makes Its Debut

The auction opened with intense competition for PSL’s seventh team. i2c initially raised the bid to Rs155 crore, but it was FKS who ultimately secured the franchise with a winning bid of Rs175 crore.

The team will be based in Hyderabad, marking the city’s first entry into Pakistan’s premier T20 league.

Record-Breaking Sialkot Franchise

The eighth franchise saw even fiercer bidding, with a base price of Rs170 crore. i2c, Aim Next, and OZ Developers battled aggressively, with OZ Developers ultimately triumphing at Rs185 crore—the highest amount ever paid for a PSL team. The new franchise will represent Sialkot, cementing the city’s place in the league as its most expensive franchise to date.

Pakistan’s Rising Talent

Before the auction began, the PCB honoured the Pakistan Shaheens for winning the Men’s Rising Stars Asia Cup and the national team that claimed the Hong Kong Super Sixes title.

The Shaheens received Rs90 million, while the Hong Kong Super Sixes winners were awarded Rs18.5 million.

Speaking at the event, PSL chief executive Salman Naseer reflected on the league’s growth over its first decade. “The PSL is no longer fighting for survival,” he said. “It is moving firmly towards expansion and global recognition.”

Looking Ahead to PSL 11

With the addition of Hyderabad and Sialkot, the HBL PSL 11, scheduled from 26 March to 3 May 2026, will feature eight teams for the first time.

This expansion marks a significant new chapter in Pakistan’s premier T20 competition, offering fans across the country more excitement and bringing the league closer to its vision of global prominence.