Ali Tareen has reportedly re-entered the race to regain ownership of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Multan Sultans, as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) moves closer to auctioning the team to new investors.
According to sources, Tareen has shown interest in buying back the franchise at around Rs. 135 crore, a valuation linked to Multan’s earlier ownership agreement. However, PCB officials have made it clear that the team will not be sold through a private deal. All interested parties must participate in the official open bidding process.
PCB Targets Higher Valuation for Multan Sultans
With PSL franchise prices rising sharply in recent years, the PCB is now aiming for a significantly higher sale price. Insiders suggest the board is targeting a final valuation between Rs. 170 and 180 crore, reflecting the league’s growing commercial strength.
Recent high-profile franchise sales have boosted confidence within the PCB, encouraging officials to push for premium prices for established teams like Multan Sultans.
Multan Sultans Sale Could Cross Rs. 2 Billion
The upcoming auction is expected to be one of the biggest financial deals in PSL history. PCB sources believe the Multan Sultans franchise could generate more than Rs. 2 billion, as several local and overseas investor groups have reportedly expressed strong interest.
Two major companies are said to be preparing aggressive bids that could approach the Rs. 2 billion mark, setting the stage for intense competition.
Background of Ownership Dispute
Multan Sultans’ previous franchise agreement was not renewed due to disputes between the PCB and former owners over financial and contractual matters. At one point, the board had planned to operate the team independently for PSL 11.
However, this strategy was revised after the successful sale of two new franchises at high valuations, prompting the PCB to pursue a full auction instead.
Technical Bids and Auction Process Underway
The PCB has officially issued advertisements for the franchise sale, inviting interested parties to submit technical bids. The deadline for these submissions is set for Friday, after which qualified bidders will proceed to the final auction stage.
The winning bidder will be selected through a transparent and competitive process, in line with PCB regulations.
Former Owners Also Seek Return
Reports suggest that Multan’s former owners have also attempted to re-enter the bidding process. While they initially faced eligibility issues due to outstanding dues, these payments were reportedly cleared promptly.
Sources say the former owners later proposed a buyback deal worth Rs. 1.35 billion, but PCB officials rejected the offer, emphasizing that only auction winners can reclaim the franchise.
What This Means for PSL 11
The sale of Multan Sultans is a major development ahead of PSL 11. A successful high-value auction will further strengthen the league’s financial stability and attract more international investment.
It will also determine the long-term management structure of one of PSL’s most competitive teams.
