The PCB (Pakistan Cricket Board) is struggling financially, but to increase their revenue, the Pakistan Super League (PSL) is gearing up for expansion in 2026, where two new teams are expected to be added and could be sold between $7 million (195 cr PKR) and $10 million each. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) aims to leverage the league’s increasing popularity and value. Currently, the PSL consists of six franchises under an agreement that will be due for renewal after the upcoming 10th season, as reported by The Express Tribune Pakistan.
Looking from India’s POV, $7 million is approximately equal to ₹195.95 crores PKR and around 60 crores in Indian rupees. Comparing with the price of any IPL franchise, in 2021, Gujarat Titans were sold for ₹5,625 crore. So a PSL’s franchise’s value is almost 90 times less than IPL.
Franchise fee adjustments
The PCB is getting ready to adjust franchise fees as well. Existing team owners will have the choice to keep their current rights or let them go. However, all current teams have shown interest in continuing. An independent audit firm will reassess the league’s value to decide the new fees. The exchange rate was previously set at PKR170 per dollar for team payments. Since the rupee has dropped to Pakistani Rs 282 per dollar, changes in fees are expected.
Financial details and new prospects
Multan Sultans, the most costly team, pays PKR 1.08 billion (around $6.3 million) annually, while other teams were purchased for amounts between $1.1 million and $2.6 million. With the addition of two new teams, the PCB hopes to sell each for up to Rs 2.5 billion (approximately $10 million). Several groups are interested in buying a franchise, including a major corporate entity in Pakistan and a Grade Two cricket institution. The PCB has also discussed with potential investors from the United States and United Kingdom.
Concerns and future steps
Although there is excitement about the league’s expansion, current franchise owners worry about a potential drop in their central revenue share. At present, all teams receive an equal portion of the league’s central revenue, regardless of their franchise fees. The PCB has assured these teams that upcoming sponsorship and broadcasting deals will boost overall revenue as a whole.
Some analysts are skeptical about the financial feasibility of new franchises, pointing to past issues faced by owners. For example, Multan Sultans experienced heavy losses previously. In 2018, its previous owner, Schon Group, withdrew due to financial troubles. “The PCB should focus on financially stable buyers to prevent similar challenges,” experts advise. With numerous investors interested and a thriving broadcasting market, the PCB hopes to complete the expansion process ahead of the 11th PSL season in 2026.
