PSL Expansion: Multan Sultans Face New Competition
The expansion of the PSL is expected to bring new excitement and competition to the league, with potential investors from around the world showing interest in acquiring the new teams, but the financial implications for existing teams like Multan Sultans remain a concern, as they may struggle to adapt to the increased franchise fees.
The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is set to expand from six teams to eight, with the addition of two new teams potentially by the end of 2025, according to PSL COO Naseer, in a bid to boost finances and grow beyond its traditional four cities.
The current six-team structure, featuring Islamabad United, Karachi Kings, Lahore Qalandars, Peshawar Zalmi, Quetta Gladiators, and Multan Sultans, may face increased competition from the new teams, which are expected to be sold for 2-2.5 billion rupees annually. The existing franchises, including Multan Sultans, which pays 1.08 billion rupees, may face financial challenges with the new teams, as the PCB plans to increase franchise fees by 25%.
The expansion comes as the PSL faces competition from other T20 leagues, including the Indian Premier League, SA20, and International League T20. The PCB hopes to attract new investors from Pakistan, the US, and the UK, who have expressed interest in acquiring the new teams. However, experts raise concerns about the financial sustainability of the new teams, citing Multan Sultans' struggles despite paying a lower fee.
The addition of new teams is expected to increase the league's revenue, but it also poses a challenge for the existing teams, including Multan Sultans, to adapt to the new financial landscape. The PCB's decision to engage an independent audit firm to determine the new fees is seen as a step towards ensuring the financial sustainability of the league.