The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is preparing a new decade-long franchise agreement for the Pakistan Super League (PSL), marking a pivotal shift in the tournament’s financial and ownership framework.
Sources reveal that the current 10-year franchise contracts will expire in December, prompting the PCB to introduce a comprehensive restructuring plan aimed at long-term sustainability and growth.
A high-level meeting chaired by PSL Chief Executive Officer Salman Naseer was held at the PCB headquarters in Lahore on Saturday, where the global auditing firm EY MENA presented the updated market valuation report for the PSL. These valuations will form the basis for determining the new franchise contract values.
The PCB plans to share draft renewal agreements with existing franchise owners within a week. Under the proposed model, only current franchises meeting the required eligibility criteria will be allowed to renew their contracts. Those unwilling to continue under the revised financial terms will have their franchises re-opened for public bidding.
One of the major proposed changes involves conducting all PSL-related financial transactions in Pakistani rupees instead of US dollars. This move aims to stabilise financial operations amid currency fluctuations and simplify accounting processes for both the PCB and franchise owners.
Additionally, the board is reportedly considering expanding the league from six to eight teams, which would mark the first major structural expansion since the PSL’s inception in 2015. This potential expansion reflects the growing popularity and commercial success of the tournament, both domestically and internationally.
The new agreement, expected to take effect before the next PSL season, is seen as a key step in ensuring the league’s financial stability and transparency, while positioning it for greater investment and global recognition over the next decade.
