Mohsin Naqvi deserves credit for lifting Pakistan’s cricket

By Waqar Maroof
The Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) strategy to generate revenue has worked perfectly with the successful auction of Pakistan Super League (PSL) teams. The auction of three new PSL franchises has generated more than six billion rupees, and the brilliant idea behind this historic move was led by PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
The new franchise owner selected Rawalpindi as the home city instead of Multan, though the team continues to be known as Multan Sultans. The auction ceremony was also attended by former PCB Chairman Najam Sethi, who openly appreciated the efforts and vision of Mohsin Naqvi.
The PSL took a new direction when the PCB decided to openly auction three sides—Hayatabad, Sialkot, and Rawalpindi (formerly Multan). This bold initiative proved to be a huge success. The PCB generated over six billion rupees in a single year, while the franchises were sold for a period of ten years, with each team required to pay the auction amount annually until the tenth year.
Moreover, PSL franchises are now offering highly attractive contracts to both local and foreign players. This has significantly increased the league’s global appeal. Today, the PSL stands among the top T20 leagues in the world, attracting renowned cricketers from various cricket-playing nations.
Hyderabad franchise has hired the services of Saim Ayub as the most expensive player in PSL history for 14 crore rupees. Saim Ayub is currently ranked as the world’s top T20 batsman, which further highlights the league’s growing stature.
In my opinion, the PSL is attracting young talent at an impressive rate and will serve as a strong nursery for Pakistan cricket in the coming years. All credit goes to the dynamic leadership of the PCB Chairman and his professional team for taking Pakistan cricket to new heights.
Note: The writer has been senior sports journalist