The Multan Sultans have officially parted ways with the Pakistan Super League (PSL) as the contract of the franchise, the league’s most expensive, comes to an end. The formal completion of the agreement is set for December 31.
Franchise owner Ali Tareen, who had been openly critical of PSL operations and one league official through podcasts and social media, decided to step away rather than continue under the existing structure. Despite notices from the PSL board and requests for unconditional apologies and deletion of controversial posts, Tareen declined to comply.
“This is farewell. I would rather lose the team than compromise my stance,” Tareen stated on social media, adding that he had also formally informed PSL authorities via email.
While the Multan Sultans’ contract could not be renewed, the Tareen Group has expressed interest in participating in the bidding for new PSL teams. Among the 12 companies that submitted documents, Tareen’s company is included. If technically qualified, these bidders will take part in an open auction on January 8 at the Islamabad Convention Center for the opportunity to acquire two new PSL franchises.
Under league rules, current franchise owners cannot bid for new teams while their existing contracts are active. With the Multan Sultans contract ending on December 31, the Tareen Group will officially no longer be listed as owners.
Valued at PKR 108 crore annually, Multan Sultans was the most expensive PSL franchise. Following an international valuation, the franchise’s value could rise to PKR 135 crore, and new franchises may sell for PKR 125-150 crore.
The move marks a significant shift in the PSL landscape, opening the door for fresh ownership and potential new investments in the league.
