PSL 2026 to feature 8 teams as PCB confirms historic auction

Akshita Patel

PSL to expand ahead of new season [Source: @dhillow_/X.com]PSL to expand ahead of new season [Source: @dhillow_/X.com]

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is all set for a historic expansion. CEO Salman Naseer confirmed that an auction will be held for two new franchises ahead of the tournament’s 11th edition. 

This means that from 2026, the PSL will grow from 6 to 8 teams, marking one of the biggest changes since the league’s launch in 2016.

PSL to expand with 2 new franchise additions

Speaking at a press conference in Karachi, PSL CEO Salman Naseer revealed that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has already begun preparations for this major development. 

“An auction will be held for two new PSL franchises. Bidding parties will be given a pool of city names from which they can select one team. Once it’s ready, each franchise that is in full compliance with its contractual obligations will be presented with the updated valuation figures," Naseer said.

The current six franchises, Lahore Qalandars, Karachi Kings, Islamabad United, Quetta Gladiators, Peshawar Zalmi, and Multan Sultans, are in the process of being revalued.

This process, led by international auditors Ernst & Young (EY), will determine the updated franchise prices for a 10-year extension.

Once the valuations are finalised, each existing team owner will be given the first right of renewal to retain their franchise for another decade. 

But if any of the franchises decide against renewal, its rights would be put up for offer to new investors through an open bid process. The PSL is also going through a structural re-engineering, becoming a legally recognized separate entity within the PCB fold. 

This move aims to give the league more operational independence and better management focus while still maintaining synergy with the PCB.

Will Multan Sultans continue to participate in the PSL?

Multan Sultans owner Ali Tareen has reignited his feud with the PCB through a sarcastic apology video after receiving a legal notice for criticising the board’s PSL management. 

In the video, Tareen mocked the PCB for surrounding itself with yes-men and minions, accusing it of incompetence and poor leadership. He ended the clip by ripping up the notice, saying, “I hope you like my apology.” 

The PCB, which accused Tareen of defamation and devaluing the PSL brand, is now consulting its legal team. The clash threatens Tareen’s franchise ownership amid ongoing plans to expand the league with two new teams.