Special Correspondent
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Sunday announced a wide-ranging set of decisions aimed at expanding the Pakistan Super League (PSL), strengthening domestic cricket, and improving governance, medical care and global promotion of the game.
Addressing a press conference at Gaddafi Stadium, PCB Chairman, alongside the Chief Operating Officer and PSL Chief Executive Officer, confirmed that the bidding process for two new PSL franchises will take place on January 8 at the Convention Centre, Islamabad.
Franchise bidding process
The Chairman revealed that 10 parties have qualified for the technical and financial bidding stage after scrutiny of applications. Stressing transparency, he said the process includes a bid security of PKR 200,000 and a technical clearing fee of PKR 2,000, ensuring seriousness and compliance. The PCB expects the franchises to be sold at premium valuations, providing a significant financial boost to Pakistan cricket.
Multan Sultans update
Providing clarity on the Multan Sultans franchise, the PCB announced it will manage the team directly for the upcoming PSL season. A professional cricketer will be appointed as acting head within 8 to 10 days. The Chairman confirmed that the formal sale process will begin after the current PSL season, in accordance with PPRA rules, which require a two-month international advertisement period.
Wasim Akram named PSL Brand Ambassador
In a move to elevate PSL’s international profile, legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram has been appointed PSL Brand Ambassador, effective January 1. Akram will also play a central role in promoting the league globally and will be part of the January 8 franchise auction event, adding prestige and visibility to the process.
Possible PSL schedule shift
The PCB is considering advancing the PSL start date from March 26 to March 23, coinciding with Pakistan Day. The Chairman described the proposed change as symbolically significant but clarified that it would require unanimous approval from all franchise owners.
Youth development and adoption program
Major reforms were announced for youth cricket under a comprehensive Adoption Program. The PCB will continue supporting U19 players even after they age out, offering monthly stipends, access to elite coaching, and training opportunities at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) to ensure smooth transition into senior cricket.
National Cricket Academy upgrades
The PCB has finalized plans to transform the NCA into a leading regional high-performance academy. Construction of advanced facilities and upgraded training infrastructure is set to begin within a month, with ambitions to attract and develop talent from across the region.
Medical and injury management reforms
Addressing longstanding concerns over player fitness and injury care, the PCB announced the hiring of Dr. Javed Mughal, a foreign medical expert, who will join on January 11. The move signals a comprehensive overhaul of player medical and injury management systems.
Club scrutiny and meritocracy
To strengthen grassroots cricket, KPMG has been engaged to conduct an independent audit of cricket clubs nationwide. The initiative aims to ensure transparency, accountability and merit-based selection, reinforcing trust in the domestic structure.
PCB’s stance on India and ICC correspondence
Commenting on recent incidents during the U19 Asia Cup, the Chairman reaffirmed PCB’s stance that cricket and politics should remain separate. He confirmed that formal letters are being drafted to the ICC, adding that Pakistan will respond on an equal footing and will not compromise on dignity or principle.
Media and promotion strategy
The PCB also plans to engage with the Information Minister to lobby for greater sports coverage on news channels. The Chairman emphasized the need to promote not only cricket but also hockey and football, which are gaining popularity among young audiences.
Cultural integration at PSL event
The press conference concluded with an announcement that the January 8 franchise auction will be a landmark event, featuring a live performance by Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, highlighting the PCB’s strategy of blending cricket with entertainment to enhance fan engagement and global appeal.
The PCB invited sports journalists from across the country to attend the auction, terming it a historic step in the continued growth and evolution of the Pakistan Super League.
