PCB Announces Strong Global Response to New PSL Team Bids

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed a highly encouraging international response to its tender process for the addition of two new franchises in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), highlighting the league’s growing stature in global cricket markets.

In an official statement released on Wednesday, the PCB revealed that 12 separate parties successfully submitted bids within the specified deadline, marking a significant milestone for the league’s planned expansion. According to the board, the level of interest reflects the PSL’s increasing commercial value and worldwide appeal.

What stands out in this bidding round is the diverse geographic representation of the interested parties. The bidders hail from five continents, including the United States, Australia, Canada, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Pakistan. This broad participation underlines the PSL’s evolution from a regional T20 competition into a globally recognized sporting brand.

“The response to the sale of two new PSL franchises has been exceptional,” the PCB said in its press release. “The strong international participation demonstrates confidence in the PSL’s business model and its future growth potential.”

The PCB further clarified that the results of the technical evaluation phase of the bidding process will be officially announced on 27 December. Only bidders who meet the technical and financial criteria will progress to the next stage.

Qualified parties will then compete in an open competition bidding process, scheduled to take place on 8 January at the Islamabad Convention Centre. This transparent auction-style approach is expected to ensure fair valuation and attract long-term investors committed to the league’s sustainability.

Initially, the deadline for bid submissions was set for 22 December, but the PCB extended it twice, finally closing on 24 December. The extensions were granted due to consecutive bank holidays and at the formal request of interested bidders, allowing them sufficient time to complete documentation and financial arrangements.

The Pakistan Super League was launched in 2016 with five teams, quickly gaining popularity due to its competitive cricket and high production standards. In 2018, the league expanded with the inclusion of Multan Sultans, raising the team count to six.

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Upcoming PSL Expansion Teams (2026)

Now, with the planned addition of two more franchises, the PSL is set for its first major structural expansion in seven years, taking the total number of teams to eight. The move is expected to increase match volume, boost broadcasting revenues, and create new opportunities for domestic and international players.

Cricket analysts believe this expansion could further strengthen Pakistan’s position in the global T20 ecosystem while enhancing fan engagement across new regions.

As anticipation builds ahead of the January auction, all eyes remain on the PCB’s next announcement, which could mark a transformative chapter in PSL history.

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