ISLAMABAD: The Tareen Group is vying to buy a franchise of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) as the group is among the bidders in the race for acquiring the new PSL franchise.
Pakistan Super League is set for a major expansion as the Pakistan Cricket Board moves closer to increasing the number of teams from six to eight. The PCB has completed technical evaluations of proposals submitted by interested groups and is preparing for the upcoming franchise auction, according to a report published on Thursday.
The franchise auction will take place on January 8 at the Jinnah Convention Centre in Islamabad. Officials said the expansion reflects the league’s growing commercial appeal and aims to broaden its national footprint ahead of future seasons.
Tareen Group Among Bidders
Among the confirmed bidders is the Tareen Group, led by prominent businessman Ali Khan Tareen, son of business tycoon Jehangir Khan Tareen. Tareen previously owned the Multan Sultans franchise, which he acquired in 2018 and developed into one of the PSL’s most competitive teams. Under his ownership, Multan Sultans won the PSL title in 2021 and reached several finals, establishing themselves as consistent contenders.
However, relations between Tareen and the PCB deteriorated over franchise renewal terms and governance matters. He was the only franchise owner not offered a 10-year extension, and tensions escalated after the PCB issued a legal notice over alleged contractual breaches. In late 2025, Tareen formally announced his exit from Multan Sultans. With his ownership ending at the close of the year, he is now eligible to bid for one of the new franchises.
Corporate Interest Grows Ahead of Auction
Several corporate groups have also entered the bidding process, highlighting increased business interest in the PSL. Inverex Group, a leading renewable energy company in Pakistan, has submitted an application for bidding rights. Similarly, Karachi-based VGO TEL, led by CEO Naveed Gaba, has applied to participate in the auction.
The OZ Group, chaired by Hamza Majeed, has also formally joined the race. Majeed has previously voiced strong interest in sports investments, positioning the OZ Group as a serious contender. Once the PCB confirms successful bidders, new franchise owners will select home cities from an approved list that includes Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Hyderabad, Sialkot, Muzaffarabad, and Gilgit.
