The expected reserve price for a new Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise is likely to be set at around Rs. 1.25 billion.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is expected to finalize decisions on two new teams in January, following the release of the initial tender.
According to sources, the reserve price may even exceed Rs. 1.25 billion, with multiple domestic and international firms showing interest.
From Pakistan, five major companies, including businesses from the real estate and solar energy sectors, both with a history of supporting cricket, have stepped forward. Meanwhile, two U.S.-based entrepreneurs and investors from the U.K. and another European country are also expected to participate in the bidding process.
The deadline for submitting technical proposals is December 15, and only bidders who meet the required qualifications will move on to the next stage.
In a related development, Ali Tareen, owner of the Multan Sultans, has reportedly announced his exit from the league, though the PCB has yet to release an official statement. Sources suggest that political figures are attempting to mediate, and if Tareen reverses his decision, the issue may be resolved.
The Multan Sultans previously paid an annual fee of 1.08 billion rupees, which could rise to Rs. 1.3 billion following a 25% increase. This financial obligation is believed to be a factor in the owners’ reluctance to continue.
If Tareen relinquishes ownership, the rights to the “Multan Sultans” name may no longer be guaranteed, and it is uncertain whether current owners will be allowed to participate in the re-bidding process.
Notably, one of the companies bidding for the new PSL franchise has a prominent name starting with the letter “T,” followed by “Group of Companies.”
