PCB announces official auction of Multan Sultans franchise

LAHORE: Pakistan Cricket Board continues its process of auctioning the Multan Sultans, the Pakistan Super League team, having successfully auctioned the Hyderabad and Sialkot franchises. Message here is clear, a handsome amount is pending for the PCB.

As published by the official ad by PCB, interested bidders can make their bids for the Multan Sultans franchise by January 30, and a technical review along with a list of shortlisted bidders will be published on the same day.

This is consistent with the previous sales of PSL; Hyderabad is being offered at PKR 175 crore and Sialkot at PKR 185 crore. Reports are that the Multan Sultans team is likely going to fetch a equally hefty bid as well.

Earlier, PCB had intended to franchise the player for the upcoming year with the team Multan Sultans. But with keen buyer response, they have now opted for an open bid to sell the franchise to some private purchaser.

The decision is believed to be a tactical initiative to further commercialize the PSL, increase league revenues, and ensure a balance of competition among teams. The sale of Multan Sultans is expected to enhance growth.

Lately, the PSL has attracted more funds and business attention, thanks to new teams joining with higher bids that prove its popularity. The Multan Sultans-based auction is also anticipated to witness interest not only from local people but also from international audiences who are eager to enter the thriving sports market of Pakistan.

“We are happy to start the bidding process for the ownership rights for the Multan Sultans,” commented a spokesperson for PCB. “This step is part of our strategy to ensure the commercial sustainability of the PSL and attract private sector investment in the premier T20 league in Pakistan.”

The ownership of Multan Sultans is likely to be finalized soon after the end of the auction, which means that this team too will be able to take part in the current PSL season. This is an important milestone in the progress of this league.

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