The Pakistan Super League, known as one of the country most successful cricket ventures, is now facing serious management challenges. While PSL has enjoyed a decade of thrilling cricket and rising popularity, its future direction appears unclear. The slow pace of internal operations is worrying many involved in the tournament, especially with the absence of major decisions regarding franchise valuation and team expansion.
Ever since Salman Naseer became the new CEO, the hope was that the league would move forward more efficiently. However, it now appears that many critical responsibilities have been left unattended. No audit firm has yet been appointed to evaluate franchise worth, and there is complete silence about the inclusion of new teams for the next edition. These delays are raising eyebrows among cricket fans and franchise owners alike.
PSL Management Gap Raises Concerns
The Pakistan Super League had promised structural changes to improve its operations, including the creation of a separate company for PSL. However, since this announcement, very little progress has been made. Salman Naseer, who is now the CEO of the PSL, did manage to lead the 10th edition, but much of the background work remains untouched.
Crucial roles within the new company structure are still unfilled. Only one job posting for a Senior Manager PSL has appeared recently, and sources suggest the post may simply go to someone already serving in a temporary capacity. This indicates that real restructuring has yet to begin.
No Audit Firm Appointed for Franchise Valuation
One of the most pressing issues is the absence of an audit firm to assess franchise valuation. The contracts with the existing teams need to be reviewed before the 11th edition. This review process is essential because it determines the future fee structures, franchise rights, and financial transparency.
Sources indicate that even the process to appoint an audit firm has not started. No meetings or consultations have taken place, and the only step being considered is a future advertisement in newspapers. If the appointment happens in the coming months, the entire audit process could stretch into September or October, risking further delays in decision-making.
Franchises Left in Limbo
The current PSL franchises are showing growing concern over the lack of updates and planning. With no clear information on valuation or contract extensions, the team owners are unsure how to prepare financially or structurally for the next season.
They are also worried that their long-standing demand for fair treatment and equal transparency is being ignored. Without a proper audit, there is no way to evaluate whether their investments are being valued fairly. This adds pressure to the PCB to act quickly and efficiently to resolve the matter.
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Silence on Inclusion of New Teams
For the last two years, there have been talks about expanding the PSL to include two more teams. This move was supposed to increase competition and generate more revenue. However, the current silence on this issue is worrying.
Not a single discussion has taken place regarding how the new teams would be added, how their values would be determined, or how they would impact the existing teams. Without clear leadership and direction, this idea seems to be fading away.
Title Sponsorship Renewal Still Pending
Another critical area that remains unresolved is the renewal of the PSL’s title sponsorship. The 10-year contract that carried the tournament through its first decade is now over. A new deal must be signed, but no visible steps have been taken in this direction.
A title sponsor brings in major funding and plays a key role in brand image. Delay in this area could harm both marketing efforts and financial backing for the next edition. The longer this matter is delayed, the more uncertain the league’s future becomes.
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Broadcast and Streaming Rights Await Negotiation
Besides sponsorship, the PSL also needs to finalize contracts for domestic and international broadcasting. These deals bring the game to millions of viewers and are critical for revenue generation. New streaming rights for both TV and digital platforms must also be negotiated.
So far, there has been no clear direction or public announcement about these rights. Without timely contracts, broadcasters and streaming platforms will have less time to prepare, which can directly affect the league’s reach and fan engagement.
Ground Sponsorship and Event Planning Left Undone
A successful league requires detailed planning for ground sponsorships and on-field branding. For the upcoming season, at least 8 to 10 sponsorship categories need to be renewed or restructured. These include signage, advertising boards, on-ground events, and branding partnerships.
Despite the importance of these elements, the planning work has not yet started. Event managers and partners are waiting for official communication from the board. Every week of delay adds pressure on organizers who are expected to execute high-quality campaigns under tight deadlines.
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Lack of Communication Between PCB and PSL Team
One of the more disappointing aspects of the current situation is the weak connection between PCB officials and the PSL team. According to reports, the board is keeping its officials at a distance from PSL affairs. This isolation has created a gap in communication and decision-making.
Many feel that Salman Naseer is trying to manage everything on his own, which may be beyond his capacity. As CEO, building a strong, well-qualified team should be his first priority. But so far, little has been done to ensure a complete and professional management setup.
Franchises Demand Clarity and Speed
The PSL franchises are not just concerned; they are growing impatient. These team owners invest millions of dollars into the league and expect a high level of professionalism in return. With uncertainty around contracts, audit results, sponsorships, and expansion plans, they are demanding quicker action and full transparency.
Some owners have also voiced their frustrations privately, hinting at the need for more accountability within the PCB. If these issues are not addressed soon, it could affect trust and cooperation between the franchises and the board.
Future of PSL Depends on Timely Action
The future of the Pakistan Super League now depends on how quickly and effectively these challenges are resolved. Appointing a qualified audit firm, negotiating sponsorship and broadcast deals, and expanding the league with new teams all these steps are urgent.
Without timely action, the PSL could lose the momentum it has built over the last decade. Cricket fans, sponsors, and franchises deserve better. The ball is now in the PCB court to bring back structure, clarity, and energy to the PSL brand.
FAQs
Why is the PSL franchise valuation important?
Franchise valuation helps determine the financial worth of each team. It ensures fairness in revenue sharing and sets a base for future contract negotiations.
What is causing the delay in appointing the audit firm?
The delay appears to be due to slow internal processes. No meeting has been held yet, and the firm will only be appointed after an advertisement is published, which may take months.
Are there any updates on the inclusion of new teams in PSL?
No updates or discussions have been shared publicly. The matter appears to have stalled without any clear plan or timeline.
What challenges does the new PSL CEO Salman Naseer face?
He is currently working without a full team, handling multiple responsibilities alone. The lack of experienced staff and internal communication makes his job more difficult.
Will the delay affect the 11th edition of PSL?
If major decisions like sponsorship, broadcast rights, and team contracts are not finalized soon, it could delay preparations for the 11th season and affect its quality.
