The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to arrange an auction for the Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Multan Sultans, sources said on Sunday, marking a shift from its earlier plan to run the team itself for the upcoming season.
Previously, the PCB had announced that it would take over the management of Multan Sultans for PSL 11 after the expiry of the franchise’s earlier agreement. However, following recent developments, the board has opted to put the franchise up for sale through an open bidding process.
The decision comes in the wake of the successful auction of two new PSL teams, which reportedly exceeded the PCB’s expectations in terms of valuation and investor interest. Encouraged by the strong prices fetched by the newly added franchises, the board believes the current market environment is favourable for auctioning Multan Sultans as well.
According to sources, the franchise will be offered through a transparent and competitive bidding process. An advertisement inviting expressions of interest from prospective buyers is expected to be issued soon. However, a formal announcement will be made only after the PCB completes a review of the legal and contractual aspects related to the sale.
The PSL’s recent expansion and growing commercial appeal have reportedly attracted increased interest from both local and foreign investors. Sources said that several potential buyers have already expressed interest in acquiring Multan Sultans, buoyed by the league’s rising brand value, improved broadcast revenues and expanding fan base.
Multan Sultans, one of the newer teams in the PSL, has emerged as a competitive side in recent editions of the tournament and enjoys a strong following, particularly in southern Punjab. The franchise’s on-field performances and commercial potential are seen as key factors that could drive its valuation higher at auction.
PCB officials are said to be optimistic that the sale will attract a strong price, further strengthening the league’s financial structure and supporting the board’s long-term plans to grow the PSL as a premier T20 competition.
