PCB Receives Strong Global Interest as PSL Expansion Bidding Draws 12 Parties

The Pakistan Cricket Board has confirmed strong global interest in PSL expansion bidding. A total of 12 parties submitted bids for two new franchises within the deadline. The response, according to the PCB, has been exceptional and encouraging.
The board extended the bidding deadline several times due to rising investor interest. Initially set for December 15, the deadline moved to December 22 and later to December 24. As a result, more international groups joined the process.
Investors from five countries submitted bids. These include the United States, Australia, Canada, the UAE, and Pakistan. Therefore, the development highlights the league’s growing global appeal.

PSL Set to Expand to Eight Teams

This bidding process marks a major step in expanding the PSL to eight teams from the 2026 season. Notably, this is the league’s first major expansion since Multan Sultans joined in 2018.
Several business sectors have shown interest. Reports point to telecom firms, real estate groups, and overseas Pakistani consortia. In addition, Inverex Power Solution confirmed its intention to bid for a franchise.
The PCB will announce the outcome of the first bidding phase on December 27. After that, qualified bidders will enter an open competition phase. This next stage will take place on January 8 at the

Islamabad Convention Centre.

Meanwhile, the PCB has stressed transparency throughout the process. It aims to follow international standards and ensure long-term league growth.
The new teams will select cities from a shortlist. Options include Hyderabad, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Gilgit,

Muzaffarabad, and Sialkot

The 11th PSL edition will run from March 26 to May 3, 2026. It will overlap with the IPL to improve overseas player availability. A revised format will fit eight teams into a 39-day window.