KEY POINTS
- Technical evaluation results will be announced on Dec 27, followed by open auction on Jan 8.
- First major expansion in seven years, set to bring the total number of PSL teams to eight.
- The overwhelming global response reflects the PSL’s growing international stature.
LAHORE, Pakistan: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced an overwhelming international response to its invitation for bids on two new Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchises, with 12 parties from five continents submitting formal proposals before Wednesday’s deadline.
The strong interest from investors across the United States, Australia, Canada, the United Arab Emirates, and Pakistan underscores the T20 league’s rapidly growing global stature and commercial viability.
Response from Five Continents
In a statement, the PCB described the reaction as “exceptional and encouraging.”
The board confirmed that a dozen bidders formally participated, highlighting the PSL’s expanding appeal beyond Pakistan’s borders.
Mr. Salman Naseer, CEO PSL, Chairs the meeting for the league’s expansion process. As 12 parties submitted bids for two new Pakistan Super League teams!#HBLPSL | #NewEra pic.twitter.com/l3Q3rHZXHX
— PakistanSuperLeague (@thePSLt20) December 24, 2025
“These bidders belong to five continents, which clearly reflects the PSL’s growing global popularity and commercial appeal,” the PCB stated.
This marks a significant moment for the league, which began in 2016 with five teams and expanded to six in 2018.
Transparent Process
The board outlined a clear, two-stage process for the franchise sale. The technical evaluation of the received bids is now underway, with the results set to be announced on December 27.
This phase will determine the technically and financially qualified parties eligible to proceed.
The qualified bidders will then compete in an open auction to be held at the Islamabad Convention Centre on January 8.
The PCB emphasized its commitment to a “transparent and competitive manner in line with international standards,” aiming to ensure the league’s sustainable growth.
PSL to Become an Eight-Team League
This expansion represents the first major restructuring of the PSL in seven years.
The successful addition of two new franchises will bring the total number of teams to eight for the league’s upcoming 11th edition, scheduled for next year.
The move is expected to intensify competition, enhance the league’s commercial footprint, and provide a broader platform for both international stars and domestic Pakistani talent.
The overwhelming international investor confidence signals a new chapter for the HBL PSL as it cements its position among the world’s premier cricket leagues.
