PCB sets base price for franchise in upcoming Pakistan Junior League

Neighbours often tend to display similar traits; while the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is busy auctioning IPL media rights, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have zeroed in on a base price to own a franchise in their proposed Pakistan Junior League (PJL).

As per a report on cricketpakistan.com.pk, the PCB has set a base price of USD 0.7 million for a franchise in the city-based league.

PCB chairman Ramiz Raja's pet project is expected to begin in October and aims to showcase young talent from all over Pakistan that will rub hands with young talent across the globe. The matches will take place at Lahore's iconic Gadaffi Stadium.

Several concerned parties also requested that the base price of Rs 140 million be lowered, while others demanded that the fee be waived altogether. On the other hand, franchise owners argued that a fee waiver meant more funds could be allotted for players and would increase investment in basic facilities.

The board has also rejected a proposal that under-23 players should also be allowed to play in the T20 tournament. PCB's Director of Media, Sami Ul Hasan, has categorically said that this tournament will only feature Under-19 players.

The PJL will work hand-in-hand with PCB's Pathway Cricket Programme, where the board will provide the top 100 teenagers with a monthly wage of Rs 30,000 each.

Speaking about PJL, Raja said, "Following the success of the HBL Pakistan Super League and the ever-improving reputation of the PCB, the potential sponsors have shown excitement and expressed their interest in the city-based Pakistan Junior League in their endeavor to play an important role in helping the PCB to create an environment of brilliance by providing a clear pathway to the talented youngsters, which, in turn, will fortify our bench-strength and produce new national stars and heroes."

Recently, PCB appointed Faizal Mirza as a consultant for the PJL, who also was a part of the Pakistan Super League during its initial run.