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| PCB confirms PSL expansion from 2026 with two new teams |
The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is set to undergo significant changes, with the addition of two new franchises in 2026, expanding the league to eight teams. This expansion was officially confirmed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in a statement released on Friday, designating the 2025 season as the "last six-team event."
The decision to expand the league has been anticipated since the PCB and PSL franchises agreed to delay any further additions until after the tenth season. Multan Sultans, who joined the league in 2018, were the last team to be added, making them the only addition to the original five franchises so far. The process for selecting which cities the new teams will represent has not yet begun.
The year following the tenth season is expected to bring considerable changes and potential challenges for the PSL. The ten-year lease agreements between the PSL and the franchise owners are set to expire in 2025. Even the Multan Sultans' lease, despite their later entry, is due for renewal next year. All six current franchise owners have the right of first refusal, meaning that a franchise will only be available for sale if the current owner declines to match the new valuation.
Another contentious issue is the timing of the PSL from the next season onward. Traditionally held in February-March, the PSL's window coincides with the ICC Champions Trophy, the ILT20, and the SA20 tournaments. To avoid scheduling conflicts, the PCB is considering shifting the PSL to April-May, directly overlapping with the Indian Premier League (IPL). The PCB's proposed window is from April 7 to May 20, which would make this timing permanent rather than a temporary fix.
This proposal has met with mixed reactions. While some franchises initially opposed the idea due to concerns about player availability and competition with the IPL, the PCB remains optimistic that the franchises will eventually agree. Importantly, the PSL governing council, which includes the PCB, has the authority to make scheduling decisions, potentially overriding franchise objections.
To address concerns about player availability, the PCB has proposed changes to player recruitment rules and increasing financial allowances, enabling franchises to sign marquee players outside the draft. This approach aims to mitigate the impact of the IPL clash. Additionally, the current broadcast partnership ends in 2025, and the next season could serve as a trial for the viability of hosting the PSL during the IPL's schedule. The expansion to eight teams will also necessitate a longer tournament window, with the IPL's three-month span offering enough time for an extended PSL.
However, this scheduling shift means that the PSL will primarily attract overseas players not selected by the IPL, given the financial disparity between the leagues. For instance, Rashid Khan's participation for the Lahore Qalandars could be in jeopardy, as he is likely to prioritize the IPL. Despite retaining him for PSL 2024, the Qalandars might struggle to field him if the PSL and IPL schedules overlap.
The PCB is also exploring the possibility of hosting the 2025 PSL playoffs and final in the UK due to the intense heat in Lahore during mid-May. This move aims to mitigate weather-related challenges and broaden the PSL's global reach. Hosting the final stages in the UK is also considered a more cost-effective option than the UAE, which has previously hosted PSL matches not held in Pakistan.
In conclusion, the PSL's expansion and potential scheduling shift signify a pivotal moment for the league. The PCB's strategic decisions will play a crucial role in navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, ensuring the PSL's continued growth and success on the global stage.