The move follows an unresolved dispute with former owner Ali Khan Tareen, whose agreement was not renewed after the PCB deemed him non-compliant, citing public criticism of the league’s management.
Tareen, who had raised concerns over transparency and governance, later chose not to renew ownership and threatened legal action after receiving notices from the board.
Introduced in 2018 as the league’s sixth team, Multan Sultans were historically the most valuable franchise, having been bought at a higher price than others. They won the PSL title in 2021 and reached several finals.
Speaking at a press conference at Gaddafi Stadium, Naqvi said: “This year, the PCB will operate Multan Sultans itself. After the end of the next PSL season, God-willing, we will hand it over to its next owners after an auction process.”
He added that an “acting head” would be appointed within eight to 10 days, preferably a former professional cricketer, to ensure smooth operations.
The development comes as the PSL expands to eight teams in 2026. Auctions for two new franchises will be held on January 8 in Islamabad, with 10 shortlisted bidders.
While five existing teams have renewed their agreements under revised valuations, Multan Sultans will not be auctioned before the upcoming season to maintain continuity.
The 11th PSL will run from March 26 to May 3.
![Shakib Al Hasan [L] and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Photo-LQ](https://cricfrenzy.com/public/storage/images/5-2025/cf_LWokJqsf.jpg "Shakib Al Hasan [L] and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Photo-LQ")
