PCB to Manage Multan Sultans for PSL 2026 Amid Ownership Changes
PCB Takes Charge of Multan Sultans for PSL 2026
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced that it will oversee the Multan Sultans franchise during the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026. Reports indicate that the team will not seek an external buyer at this time.
During a press briefing, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi revealed plans to appoint former cricketers to manage the Multan Sultans for the 11th season of the PSL. He mentioned that the franchise would be open for auction after the season concludes. "Once the PSL wraps up, we will auction the franchise, and within the next week or so, we will appoint an interim head to manage operations," Naqvi stated.
Ownership Issues and Upcoming Auction
Naqvi explained that the Multan Sultans could not be sold alongside two new franchises, which are set to be auctioned in Islamabad on January 8. This is due to regulations that require advance notice of the sale.
Ali Tareen, the previous owner of Multan Sultans, stepped down last month following a dispute with PSL management, which he accused of lacking ambition and transparency. The PCB subsequently issued a legal notice to Tareen for allegedly breaching his ownership contract and requested an apology. Tareen humorously responded with a video in which he tore up the notice.
PSL 2026 Schedule and Format Changes
The PSL 2026 is scheduled to commence on March 26 and will run until May 3. This year's schedule overlaps with the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the second consecutive season, as the IPL typically takes place from late March to late May.
Initially, the Pakistan cricket team was set to tour Bangladesh for two Test matches, three ODIs, and three T20Is during March and April, according to Olympics.com.
This season will be the longest in PSL history, lasting 39 days, which is an increase from the usual 30-35 days of previous editions. The PSL, established in 2016, will be entering its 11th season, having previously been held between February and March, a period now occupied by the ICC Men's T20 World Cup scheduled for next year in India and Sri Lanka.
Last season's PSL also took place during this timeframe due to Pakistan hosting the ICC Champions Trophy.
Expansion of the League to Eight Teams
The PSL is set to expand to eight franchises, with the auction for the two new teams planned for January 8, as confirmed by PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
Islamabad United and Lahore Qalandars, the inaugural champions, are the most successful teams in the league, each having won three titles. Lahore Qalandars are the current defending champions.