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LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said it had received bids from 12 parties for the ownership of two new franchises in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), underlining the growing international appeal of the country’s flagship Twenty20 tournament.
In a statement, the PCB described the response to its tender process as “encouraging and exceptional,” noting that interested bidders came from five continents, including North America, Australia, the Middle East, and South Asia. The bidders include parties from the United States, Australia, Canada, the United Arab Emirates, and Pakistan.
The strong international interest highlights the PSL’s rising commercial value and expanding global footprint, as the league looks to build on its success since its launch in 2016. The addition of two new teams would mark a significant expansion of the competition, which currently features six franchises.
The PCB said it would announce the results of the initial bidding phase on December 27. Only bidders who meet the technical and financial criteria will qualify for the next stage.
The final phase will involve open competitive bidding for the two franchises and is scheduled to take place on January 8 at the Islamabad Convention Centre, the board added.
“The PCB remains fully committed to conducting this process in a transparent and competitive manner, in line with international standards,” the statement said, adding that the expansion is aimed at ensuring the long-term growth and sustainability of the PSL.
The Pakistan Super League has become one of the country’s most valuable sporting properties, attracting top international players and broadcasters, and serving as a key platform for the development of local cricketing talent.
