In a dramatic development ahead of the 2026 Pakistan Super League (PSL) season, the newly established Sialkot Stallionz franchise has been officially rebranded as the Multan Sultans, restoring one of the league’s most popular cricket identities. The move comes after a major ownership shift and strategic career planning by the franchise’s new management.
CD Ventures Takes Majority Control
The rebranding was confirmed at a joint press event in Lahore attended by PSL CEO Salman Naseer, franchise owner Hamza Majeed and Gohar Shah, the head of CD Ventures, which acquired a majority stake in the franchise originally bought by OZ Developers earlier this year. The PSL chief executive confirmed that the team’s annual valuation has now risen to Rs2 billion following the new investment and name change.
“Gohar Shah requested to change the franchise name after becoming CEO, and that request has been accepted,” Salman Naseer said, announcing that the team will now compete as the Multan Sultans in the upcoming PSL season.
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Strategic Vision and Franchise Identity
Hamza Majeed described the alliance with CD Ventures as a strategic partnership sanctioned by both the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and PSL officials. “With PCB and PSL approval, this strategic partnership has been finalised,” he said, adding that Shah’s energy would help strengthen the team’s prospects ahead of the new campaign.
Gohar Shah, now the franchise’s CEO, emphasised the significance of reviving the Multan identity. “A stallion alone cannot win the PSL. To move forward, a stallion needs a sultan, and we have come as Sultans,” he said, outlining his vision for “Total Cricket,” a philosophy aimed at aligning franchise success with the broader needs of Pakistan cricket.
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Embracing Fans and Legacy
Despite the name change, the franchise management has assured supporters of the former Sialkot Stallionz—who were set to make their PSL debut before the rebranding—that elements of the Stallionz identity will remain part of the team’s campaign. Majeed also confirmed that transport arrangements will be made for Sialkot fans to attend Multan Sultans matches during the season, reflecting a commitment to honour the loyalty shown by supporters of the original brand.
The re-emergence of the Multan Sultans marks a return of one of the PSL’s most recognisable brands. The team, which has historically had a passionate fan base in South Punjab, will participate in PSL Season 11, scheduled to begin on March 26 across five venues in Pakistan.
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New Era for the PSL
The 2026 season already represents a “new era” for the PSL with its expansion from six to eight teams and significant franchise restructuring at the administrative level. The return of Multan Sultans under fresh ownership adds excitement and narrative depth to an already eagerly anticipated season. Fans now await the formal unveiling of the squad, coaching staff setup, and competitive strategy as the league edges closer to its March kickoff.
