LAHORE: Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Mohsin Naqvi has stated that 10 parties have qualified for new teams to be included in the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL), commencing on March 26.
During a significant press conference in Lahore on Sunday, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi announced that the PCB will directly operate the Multan Sultans for the upcoming PSL season 2026.
Naqvi stated that the team will be auctioned following the conclusion of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). He revealed that ten parties have qualified to bid for the two new teams being introduced in the PSL, with the sale of these teams scheduled for January 18.
Additionally, Naqvi mentioned that there is a proposal to start the tournament on March 23 instead of March 26 for the next PSL season. If all franchises agree, the PSL will commence on March 23. He also announced that Wasim Akram will serve as the brand ambassador for this season of the PSL.
The chairman said that the PCB is committed to improving cricket and is giving special attention to youth development. He noted that a cricket tournament involving 450 schools has recently been organised, and the announcement of the head of the Multan Sultans will be made within the next ten days.
Furthermore, Naqvi assured that no child playing cricket will be left unsupported, as a comprehensive mentorship and long-term care plan has been developed for all players. Work on regional cricket academies is progressing well.
He added that while club cricket will be evaluated, the PCB will not interfere, and only qualifying clubs will receive full support. According to Naqvi, the objective is to empower children not only in cricket but also in becoming self-sufficient individuals.
