The Pakistan Super League (PSL) has set the stage for one of its biggest commercial events yet. The auction of the owner-less Multan Sultans franchise, a cricket powerhouse with one of the league’s most passionate fan bases. The Pakistan Super League announced that the Multan Sultans auction will take place on February 9, 2026, in Lahore, just weeks before PSL 11 begins later this year.
PSL’s social media channels confirmed the official date, marking a major milestone for the league’s expanding business strategy. The auction follows the expiration of the previous ownership contract with Ali Khan Tareen, who chose not to renew after disagreements with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
This move comes as the PSL enters its 11th season in 2026, a year that will see the league grow from six to eight teams, the biggest expansion since the Multan franchise joined in 2018. The PCB had previously auctioned two new teams Hyderabad and Sialkot in January 2026, securing record valuations and adding significant revenue to the board’s coffers.
Unlike the recent expansion franchises, the Multan Sultans are already a decorated team with a strong legacy. The franchise won the PSL title in 2021, and later reached multiple finals, making it one of the most competitive and well-supported sides in the league. That history now makes it a highly desirable asset for investors and cricket enthusiasts looking to enter Pakistan’s premier T20 competition.
Reports suggest at least six bidders have submitted technical proposals to compete for the rights, signalling keen interest from a mix of domestic and international groups. One notable contender is former owner Ali Tareen Khan, who has officially filed his bid documents and aims to reclaim the franchise he helped build.
Market analysts expect the franchise’s base price to start around PKR 200 crore (approx. Rs2 billion) or even higher, reflecting its established popularity, strong merchandising value, and loyal fan support in South Punjab. If the final bid exceeds these expectations, it could become one of the most lucrative franchise deals in PSL history.
The auction’s timing is strategic. Holding it days before the players’ auction on February 11 gives the new owner time to plan squad strategies and management resources before the 2026 PSL draft.
With the march toward PSL 11 underway slated to kick off on March 26, 2026. The Multan Sultans auction promises to be one of the season’s most exciting off-field events, blending cricket passion with significant commercial energy.
