Key Points
- Auction for two new PSL franchises scheduled for 6 January 2026 as part of expansion.
- Six cities shortlisted for new teams, with selection reserved for technically qualified bidders.
- PCB dismisses speculation on franchise names, stressing decisions will follow official auction procedures.
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unveiled major developments for the 11th edition of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) in 2026, announcing both a substantial prize pool for participating franchises and the much-anticipated auction date for two new teams, marking a significant milestone in the league’s expansion.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, in a statement shared on the social media platform X, revealed an enhanced prize structure aimed at rewarding franchise contributions to the PSL’s rapid growth.
Under the new pay-out plan, the winning franchise will receive $500,000, the runner-up $300,000, while $200,000 has been allocated for the franchise recognised for excellence in cricket development. “Let’s take Pakistan cricket to new heights,” Naqvi said, expressing confidence in the league’s upward trajectory.
Complementing the Pakistan Super League's growth, I am thrilled to announce a new Reward for Franchises in the forthcoming editions:
– Champions: $500,000
– Runners-up: $300,000
– Best Franchise contributing towards Cricket Development: $200,000Let's take Pakistan cricket to…
— Mohsin Naqvi (@MohsinnaqviC42) November 21, 2025
In line with its expansion strategy, the PCB has confirmed that the auction for two new PSL franchises will be held on 6 January 2026, a move expected to further elevate the league’s commercial value, competitive depth, and nationwide fan engagement. With the addition of these teams, the PSL will expand to an eight-franchise tournament from its 11th edition.
The pool of shortlisted cities in contention for franchise allocation includes Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Hyderabad, Sialkot, Muzaffarabad, and Gilgit. Only technically qualified bidders will be invited to participate in the auction, with successful bidders earning the right to choose their preferred city and team name from the shortlisted locations.
The PCB dismissed recent media speculation suggesting that the new franchises had already been finalised, reiterating that team names will only be decided after the auction in accordance with official bidding procedures. Earlier rumours hinted at Faisalabad and Gilgit as frontrunners, but PCB officials clarified that all six cities remain under equal consideration.
The board also highlighted the strong international interest generated following its global advertisement issued on 15 November 2025, inviting investors to submit technical proposals by 15 December 2025 at 11:00 AM.
With expanded participation, strengthened commercial incentives, and heightened global engagement, the PCB and PSL Management expressed confidence that the 2026 edition will mark another defining chapter in the league’s evolution and its impact on Pakistan cricket.
