The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) received 12 bids for two PSL new franchises on 24 December 2025 in Lahore. The announcement followed a tender process that attracted parties from the United States, Australia, Canada, the United Arab Emirates and Pakistan. This step advances the PSL expansion 2026, which will increase the league to eight teams.
This move reflects the Pakistan Super League’s increasing international recognition. As one of South Asia’s prominent T20 competitions, the PSL has drawn substantial commercial interest. The addition of new PSL teams could enhance revenue streams and fan engagement across the region, where cricket holds significant cultural and economic value.
PCB PSL Bids Overview
The PCB described the response to the tender as exceptional and encouraging. Bidders submitted proposals by the deadline of 24 December 2025. The process involved parties from five countries, demonstrating the league’s appeal beyond South Asia.
The tender was initially advertised on 15 November 2025 with a submission deadline of 15 December 2025. Roadshows promoted the opportunity, including an event at Lord’s Cricket Ground in London on 2 December 2025.
Among the interested groups are telecom companies, real estate firms and consortia. One confirmed bidder is Inverex Power Solution, a Pakistan-based solar power company and long-term PSL sponsor. The diverse bidder pool includes US-based Pakistani businessmen.
The PCB will review the submissions and announce results on 27 December 2025. Technically qualified parties will proceed to the next phase.
Auction for New PSL Teams
The auction for the two PSL new franchises is set for 8 January 2026 at the Islamabad Convention Centre. The event will be broadcast live. Successful bidders will select from shortlisted cities: Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Hyderabad, Sialkot, Muzaffarabad and Gilgit.
This auction follows international standards for transparency. The PCB aims to ensure competitive bidding to support the league’s growth. The base price for each franchise is expected to reflect the PSL’s commercial value, though specific figures remain undisclosed.
The PSL expansion 2026 marks the first major addition since Multan Sultans joined in 2018, bringing the total to six teams. The 5 teams, Islamabad United, Karachi Kings, Lahore Qalandars, Peshawar Zalmi and Quetta Gladiators have renewed their ownership under revised valuations by Ernst & Young. However the status of Multan Sultans stays unresolved.
Background on PSL Development
The Pakistan Super League launched in 2016 with five teams. It has since become a key fixture in South Asian cricket, attracting top international players and generating significant broadcast revenue. The league’s 10-year franchise agreements ended after the 2025 season, prompting the current expansion.
Previous editions have seen matches in major cities like Lahore, Karachi and Multan. The PSL has contributed to cricket infrastructure development in Pakistan and boosted local talent. Its format mirrors other global T20 leagues, with playoffs and a final.
The decision to expand stems from growing demand. The PCB has focused on enhancing the league’s global footprint through promotional activities. The roadshow at Lord’s aimed to attract European investors, while interest from North America and the Middle East underscores the PSL’s potential.
Foreign player registration for PSL 11 opened recently, with a deadline of 20 January 2026. Agents must submit details for inclusion in the player pool. The expansion creates more roster spots, likely increasing participation from overseas stars.
What’s Next for PSL Expansion 2026
Following the auction, the new owners will integrate into league operations. The PSL 11 schedule runs from 26 March to 3 May 2026, spanning 39 days. This window overlaps with the Indian Premier League to improve player availability.
The revised format accommodates eight teams, with potential matches at additional venues like Faisalabad. The PCB plans to maintain a compact schedule to maximise viewership.
This PSL expansion 2026 could elevate competition levels and commercial partnerships. With new PSL teams in place, the league aims for sustained growth.
The addition of PSL new franchises will transform the tournament structure starting in 2026.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, December 25th, 2025
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