The Pakistan Cricket Board is entering the final stages of preparing a new 10-year franchise agreement for the Pakistan Super League, signaling a major shift in the tournament’s future direction. This development is being seen as one of the most important milestones since the league’s launch in 2016, as the PCB looks to expand the number of teams and strengthen its commercial structure.
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According to an official statement, representatives of the chartered firm EY MENA met with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi to present the updated PSL valuation report. This report will serve as the foundation for the upcoming franchise contracts, helping the board determine the financial value and sustainability of each participating team.
The meeting was also attended by PSL Chief Executive Officer Salman Naseer and PCB Chief Operating Officer Sumair Ahmed. Mohsin Iqbal and his team from EY MENA briefed the chairman on the league’s market performance and future potential, providing an in-depth assessment of the PSL’s position in both the local and global cricket markets.
During the meeting, Chairman Mohsin Naqvi instructed EY MENA to engage directly with all existing PSL franchises to ensure a transparent and inclusive process. He emphasized the need to finalize the new agreements quickly so that franchises have clarity and stability ahead of the next season.
The current six franchise contracts are set to expire in December. Under the new structure, the PCB plans to expand the league to eight teams, making it the biggest season yet. The board is exploring multiple options for new cities, with a focus on regions that have shown growing interest in cricket and potential for strong fan engagement.
The PCB also confirmed that the new franchise contracts will only be signed with eligible franchises that meet all financial and operational criteria. EY MENA has been tasked with determining the fair market value for each team to ensure that the new contracts reflect the league’s true commercial growth.
Sources within the board have indicated that the new valuation structure will not only benefit the franchises but also create more opportunities for players, coaches, and local sponsors. The PCB expects the revised agreement to attract new investors and strengthen partnerships with broadcasters and brand sponsors.
In addition to the franchise renewal process, the PCB is planning to expand the number of venues hosting PSL matches. As revealed by PSL CEO Salman Naseer in a recent podcast, the board aims to include six venues in the upcoming seasons, ensuring that fans across Pakistan can enjoy live PSL matches in their home cities.
This expansion will likely bring matches to cities such as Multan, Peshawar, and Quetta on a more regular basis, in addition to Karachi and Lahore. By increasing the number of venues, the PCB hopes to deepen regional fan loyalty and make the PSL a more accessible and inclusive event nationwide.
The move is also seen as part of a broader effort to enhance the league’s international reputation. By renewing the franchise agreements based on professional valuations and expanding the competition’s footprint, the PCB aims to make the PSL a stronger global brand that can compete with top T20 leagues around the world.
Industry experts believe the next decade of the PSL will be defined by growth, innovation, and increased financial stability. The new agreements are expected to provide franchises with long-term security, allowing them to invest more confidently in player development, fan engagement, and marketing.
As the PCB prepares to finalize the 10-year franchise deal, stakeholders are optimistic that this step will set a new benchmark for cricket leagues in the region. With stronger team structures, transparent governance, and expanded reach, the PSL is entering a new chapter that promises to elevate the standard of professional cricket in Pakistan and beyond.
