Power shift in PSL governance puts Mohsin Naqvi firmly at the helm
In a landmark restructuring move that redefines the power dynamics of the Pakistan Super League, the Pakistan Cricket Board has reconstituted the PSL Governing Council in a way that significantly consolidates authority under PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
According to a report by Dawn.com, the changes stem from a formal agreement signed between the PCB and PSL franchises, establishing a council where nine members represent the board and only eight come from the franchises — immediately tilting voting power in favor of the PCB.
But beyond mere numbers, the nature of control has transformed. “A revised PSL governing council has been formed that is headed by the PCB chairman. It will be a consultative body which will work towards a common goal of growing and improving the PSL. The PCB chairman will have all decision-making power over the PSL in respect of any and all decisions,” the agreement reads.
The implication is clear: franchises, while nominally represented, no longer hold real leverage in determining the league’s future direction.
Centralized roles and reduced franchise influence
The new agreement outlines a top-down model where PCB-appointed members are tasked with leading the PSL’s operational execution. “The PCB representatives on this PSL governing council will be responsible for providing the PSL team with expert support as required in their expertise area,” the agreement states.
These PCB representatives include high-ranking officials such as the PSL chief executive, PCB chief operating officer, PCB chief financial officer, PSL director, PCB commercial director, senior general manager finance and accounts, PSL senior manager, and director media and communications — alongside just one representative from each franchise.
The council’s remit isn’t limited to broad governance. Its scope reaches into the core logistics of tournament execution. “The governing council will, at its discretion, take decisions from time to time regarding arrangements (including who will bear costs) in respect of grounds and umpires for PSL Tournaments,” the agreement adds.
With this structure, the PCB has effectively assumed total decision-making power — a stark departure from the earlier model of shared consultation with franchises.
PCB to run Multan Sultans in PSL 2026
The shift in power coincides with a strategic but financially risky move by the board: the decision to directly operate the Multan Sultans franchise in the 2026 season. Following the exit of former owner Ali Tareen, who chose not to renew the team due to financial constraints and reported disagreements with PCB leadership, the board has opted not to put the team up for sale.
As a result, the PCB will run the franchise itself for the upcoming season. While this gives the board additional voting leverage — turning the 8-team league into a 9-7 voting scenario — it comes at a cost. The board forfeits the annual franchise fee of around PKR 1.08 billion (approx. US$ 3.9m) and must now shoulder all expenses for players, coaches, accommodations, and travel.
This decision may weaken the league’s financial returns for the board, even as it strengthens its control over PSL proceedings.
League expansion continues
Despite these internal changes, the PSL is pushing forward with expansion. The upcoming season, which is set to begin in March 2026, will mark the league’s transition to an eight-team format.
Two new franchises are expected to be awarded on January 8, selected from a shortlist of six cities. The five existing franchises remain under their previous owners, whose contracts have been renewed.
