PCB Clarifies PSL Expansion Process as Bidding for Two New Franchises Enters Final Stage
The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is gearing up for its most significant expansion since its inception, but the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has firmly refuted circulating reports claiming that two new franchise city names have already been finalized. In an official statement released on Thursday, the board clarified that no decision has been made regarding the selection of cities and that such claims are misleading.
The PCB emphasized that, according to the bidding framework, successful bidders not the PCB will have the authority to select their franchise identity from a list of six pre-approved cities. These shortlisted options include Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Hyderabad, Sialkot, Muzaffarabad, and Gilgit. The board stressed that this process is outlined clearly in the official Bid Documents and will be strictly followed.
Growing Global Interest in PSL Expansion
In its statement, the PCB welcomed the increasing national and international interest in acquiring rights to the two new PSL franchises. The board stated that the overwhelming response reaffirms the PSL’s reputation as one of the fastest-growing T20 leagues in the world. It also highlighted that formal bidding is fully transparent and based on strict technical and financial criteria to ensure credibility and long-term sustainability of the new teams.
The tender advertisement for the franchise rights was published globally on 15 November 2025, inviting potential investors from across the world to participate in the competitive bidding process. According to the board, the deadline for submitting technical proposals has been set for 15 December 2025 at 11:00 AM, after which evaluation and verification will begin.
Auction Date Confirmed: A Turning Point for PSL
The PSL’s journey into a new era has been officially scheduled. The PCB has confirmed that 6 January 2026 will be the date on which the two new franchises will formally enter the Pakistan Super League. This announcement marks a crucial milestone in the league’s carefully planned expansion trajectory.
The confirmation comes after the PSL completed its comprehensive financial and commercial evaluations of all existing franchises, assets, and future valuations the final requirement before officially opening the doors to two new teams. This strategic move, the PCB noted, is designed to strengthen the league’s commercial footprint and elevate its competitive intensity.
New Teams Expected to Transform PSL Competitiveness
With the inclusion of two additional teams, the PSL is expected to see heightened competition, fresh rivalries, and a wider pool of local and international talent. Cricket analysts predict that the expansion could significantly boost opportunities for emerging Pakistani players, offering them new platforms to showcase their abilities and secure professional careers.
The league’s expansion will also provide additional hosting opportunities to cities that have long awaited PSL representation. Stadium development, regional cricket excitement, and fan engagement are expected to surge, especially in the cities included in the shortlist.
City Selection: What Buyers Need to Know
Prospective franchise owners will enjoy complete flexibility in choosing a team name from the six shortlisted cities:
- Faisalabad
- Rawalpindi
- Hyderabad
- Sialkot
- Muzaffarabad
- Gilgit
This list was compiled after evaluating regional cricket potential, infrastructure prospects, commercial relevance, and strategic expansion plans aimed at strengthening cricket’s territorial footprint across Pakistan.
The PCB reiterated that any information claiming that two city names have already been chosen is purely speculative and does not reflect the actual process.
Market Confidence Rising as PSL Heads Into Next Phase
Officials within the PSL and PCB expressed optimism and excitement for this new chapter. The league’s successful track record, strong commercial partnerships, and growing global audience have made it an attractive investment venture.
According to PCB insiders, interest from business groups in Pakistan, the Middle East, Europe, and North America has increased significantly, reflecting international confidence in the PSL brand.
The board has also assured fans that expansion will not dilute the quality of the competition. Instead, it is expected to diversify talent, intensify fan rivalries, and bring PSL closer to the scale and spectacle of other major cricket leagues around the world.
A New Era for Pakistan Cricket
The addition of two new franchises is more than just an expansion it is a step toward bolstering Pakistan’s cricketing ecosystem. More teams mean more coaching roles, more player contracts, increased domestic cricket activity, and enhanced economic stimulation around cricket events. For Pakistani cricket fans, this now opens a new chapter of excitement, anticipation, and regional pride.
As the auction date draws nearer and bidding reaches its final phase, the cricketing world will be watching closely. The PSL stands at the edge of transformation a transformation that promises to redefine the league’s future and elevate the sporting landscape of Pakistan.
