Ali Tareen withdraws from PSL franchise auction
Ali Tareen has announced that he will not participate in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise auction as the league prepare to expand to eight teams ahead of its 11th edition and The decision came on the same day the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is auctioning two new franchises at the Jinnah Convention Centre, Islamabad where 10 bidders have qualified for the final stage.
Ali Tareen’s Announcement and Emotional Message
Tareen, the former owner of Multan Sultan confirmed his decision in a post on social media platform X. After careful consideration, my family and I have decided not to participate in today’s PSL franchise auction, he wrote.
He said his involvement in PSL was never only commercial.
“Our time with Multan Sultans was never just about owning a cricket team. It was about South Punjab. About giving a voice to a region that had been overlooked for too long. That’s what drove everything we built,” Tareen stated.
South Punjab Is Home, Says Tareen
Ali Tareen added that any future return to the PSL would depend on the same motivation.
“If I come back to PSL, it has to be for the same reason. South Punjab is where my heart is. It is home,” he said. He confirmed he would watch this season from the stands.
“This year I’ll be cheering for the player and celebrating with the fans and when the Multan team is being sold we’ll be ready.” He ended by wishing the remaining bidders well, writing:
“Wishing all the bidders the best. May the most outspoken owner win.”
Read more about : PTA Blocks 100 Million Illegal Mobile Devices
PCB to Operate Multan Sultan for PSL 11
Meanwhile the PCB has confirmed that it will temporarily operate Multan Sultan for PSL 11 which is scheduled to run from March to May.
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi said the board would manage the franchise for one season before selling it after the tournament.
Multan Sultans will be operate by the PCB this year, Naqvi told a media conference. “Once the PSL concludes, we will carry out the auction process and put the franchise up for sale.”
He added that an interim management setup would be announced soon and a professional cricketer is expected to oversee team operation.
PSL Expansion Mark Major Turning Point
The auction of two new franchises and the interim management of Multan Sultans mark a significant phase in PSL’s expansion as the PCB works to strengthen both the commercial and competitive structure of the league.
Conclusion
Ali Tareen withdraws from PSL franchise auction decision to stay out of the PSL 11 highlights the emotional and regional connection he associates with Multan Sultans and South Punjab. With the PCB set to temporarily run the franchise and two new teams enter the league PSL 11 represent major transition point in the tournament’s history.
FAQ’s
Why Ali Tareen not participating in the PSL auction?
He said his involvement in PSL was about representing South Punjab, not just business and he chose not to participate at this stage.
Who will run Multan Sultans in PSL 11?
The Pakistan Cricket Board will operate the team for one season.
How many teams will PSL have in PSL 11?
The league is expanding to eight teams.