The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to move quickly on the future ownership of Multan Sultans, with sources saying the franchise will now be put up for sale immediately instead of waiting until next year.
The accelerated timeline is linked to what officials describe as rising investor appetite for the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
During the recent auction process for the league’s incoming franchises, Hyderabad and Sialkot, the PCB reportedly received strong signals that potential buyers were also keen on Multan Sultans, prompting the board to fast-track its plans.
According to sources, the Multan Sultans auction will take place before the upcoming PSL 11 season, rather than after it. The PCB is expected to publish an official advertisement in the coming days to invite eligible bidders.
The sale is expected to follow the same framework and process used for the Hyderabad and Sialkot franchise auctions, with qualified parties allowed to compete through the formal bidding route.
PCB officials believe an earlier auction could help the board maximize value while interest in the league remains high, and could also provide a timely financial boost ahead of the next PSL cycle.
The franchise has been in a transition phase since the PCB announced it would take over Multan Sultans’ operations for PSL 11, after owner Ali Tareen opted not to renew his ownership agreement, ending a seven-year association with the team.
Tareen had publicly attributed his exit to differences with PSL management and other franchise stakeholders. He also described Multan Sultans as a major personal honour and said the decision was driven by principle rather than money, while highlighting the team’s identity as a representative of South Punjab.
To ensure the franchise remains operational ahead of PSL 11, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi had confirmed that the board would run the team on an interim basis. At that time, the PCB had signaled that the franchise would be auctioned after the season—but the latest decision indicates the board is now opting for an earlier sale.
Meanwhile, sources say the players’ draft for the upcoming PSL season is expected to take place on January 30, as teams finalize squads ahead of the tournament.
