CB Plans Franchise Sale Before PSL 11. The Pakistan Super League (PSL) may soon witness a major identity shift, as reports suggest that one of its established franchises is likely to be sold and potentially rebranded ahead of the next season. The franchise in question is Multan Sultans, which is expected to go under the hammer as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) moves closer to finalising new ownership.
If the sale is completed before PSL 11, cricket fans could see the Multan-based side enter the upcoming season with a new name, logo, and commercial identity.
Multan Sultans Sale: What’s Happening?
According to multiple reports, the PCB is actively preparing to auction the Multan Sultans franchise. Unlike earlier assumptions, the board is not insisting that the new owners retain the existing name. This means that once the franchise is sold, the incoming owners will have complete freedom to rebrand the team.
The current name, “Multan Sultans,” is therefore not contractually protected. A new ownership group can introduce:
- A new franchise name
- A redesigned logo and team colors
- A refreshed marketing and sponsorship strategy
This development signals a potentially historic shift in the PSL landscape, where franchise identity could change for the first time outside of expansion teams.
Why PCB Is Pushing for a Sale Before PSL 11
Recent reporting suggests that the PCB wants the sale completed before the start of PSL 11, rather than delaying the process. An official advertisement inviting eligible bidders is expected soon, following a bidding structure similar to the recent PSL expansion auctions.
There are several reasons behind this accelerated timeline:
- Operational clarity for the upcoming season
- Ownership stability ahead of squad planning
- Commercial certainty for sponsors and broadcasters
With PSL preparations already underway, the PCB wants franchises to be fully functional and decision-ready.
PSL 11 Draft Timeline Adds Pressure
One of the key factors pushing the PCB toward a quick resolution is the upcoming players’ draft. The PSL 11 draft is expected to take place around January 30, leaving little room for uncertainty.
Franchises need to finalize:
- Retention strategies
- Draft priorities
- Coaching and support staff decisions
Without a confirmed ownership structure, these decisions become difficult. A completed sale would allow the new owners to step in with a clear plan and full authority.
Ali Tareen’s Exit and PCB’s Interim Role
The Multan Sultans’ ownership situation has remained unsettled since the departure of Ali Tareen, who previously owned the franchise. Since then, the PCB has temporarily overseen operations to ensure that the team remains active and compliant with league requirements.
While this interim arrangement kept the franchise afloat, it was never meant to be a long-term solution. The board has consistently indicated that a permanent ownership structure is the priority.
Why Multan Is Attractive to New Buyers
Unlike a newly added expansion team, Multan Sultans already bring significant value to the table.
Key strengths include:
- A proven PSL track record
- An established fan base in South Punjab
- Strong regional identity
- Home venue at Multan Cricket Stadium
These factors make the franchise commercially appealing, especially for investors looking to build a strong brand within Pakistan’s most popular cricket league.
Rebranding: What Could Change?
If new owners take control, a full rebrand is very much on the table. This could include:
- Renaming the franchise to better align with a new brand vision
- Updating team colors and logo design
- Revamping merchandise and digital presence
A rebrand could help the new owners differentiate themselves from the past and create fresh excitement among fans.
Impact on Fans and PSL Branding
For fans, a name change could be emotional. Multan Sultans have become a familiar identity over recent PSL seasons. However, rebranding is not uncommon in global franchise sports and can often strengthen a team’s market position if executed well.
From the league’s perspective, a successful sale and rebrand would:
- Improve financial stability
- Strengthen franchise governance
- Enhance PSL’s long-term commercial value
What Happens If the Sale Is Delayed?
If the auction is not completed before PSL 11, the PCB may continue to manage the franchise temporarily. However, this is considered a less desirable option, as it limits long-term planning and strategic investment.
A timely sale would ensure that the franchise enters the next PSL cycle with clear leadership and direction.
Could Multan Enter PSL 11 Under a New Name?
Yes, that is now a realistic possibility. If the auction happens on the accelerated timeline currently being discussed, Multan could feature in PSL 11 under:
- New ownership
- A new franchise name
- A refreshed commercial identity
Such a move would mark one of the most significant off-field changes in PSL history.
Conclusion
The potential sale and rebranding of Multan Sultans highlight a crucial moment for the Pakistan Super League. With the PCB aiming to finalize ownership before PSL 11, the coming weeks will be decisive.
If new owners step in, fans may witness not just a change in management, but a complete transformation of the franchise’s identity. Whether the team continues as Multan Sultans or emerges under a new name, one thing is clear: the next chapter of this PSL franchise is about to begin.
