As the Pakistan Super League gears up for a major expansion in 2026, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has released a detailed roadmap outlining the financial and operational framework for the two new franchises set to join the tournament in its 11th edition.
According to a report by ProPakistani.pk, the PCB’s updated policy introduces strict ownership rules, a minimum earnings guarantee, and specific branding restrictions, all aimed at ensuring long-term stability and commercial integrity as interest in team ownership grows internationally.
Franchise transfer restrictions to ensure stability
To protect the league’s long-term interests, the PCB has barred any transfer or sale of new franchises during the first three years of ownership. From the fourth year onward, such transfers may only occur with the PCB’s written consent and will require a payment of 10% of the annual franchise fee as a transfer charge.
This restriction is designed to prevent short-term flipping of teams and to encourage committed investment into Pakistan’s premier T20 league.
Minimum revenue guaranteed for new entrants
A central feature of the new model is a financial safety net for incoming franchises. The seventh and eighth PSL teams will each be guaranteed a minimum of $85 crore (approx. US$ 3 million) per season over the next five editions of the league, beginning with PSL 11.
If a franchise earns less than the guaranteed amount from its share of central revenues, the PCB will make up the difference — a move that significantly reduces financial risk for new owners.
Revenue distribution and commercial rights clarified
Like existing teams, the new franchises will receive up to 95% of media rights revenue and 85% of central licensing income, after applicable deductions. Earnings from sponsorships, ticketing, and other commercial avenues will supplement their income, with central pool revenue distributed equally across all teams.
The PCB reserves the right to modify revenue shares for one or more tournaments, and final percentages will be reviewed after the 20th edition of the league.
City-based naming allowed, but with clear restrictions
New teams will be allowed to use city names in their official titles, subject to written approval by the PCB. However, any association with existing team identities — such as Qalandars, Kings, United, Zalmi, Gladiators, or Sultans — is strictly prohibited.
Similarly, logos must be submitted as part of the technical proposal and cannot contain commercial branding. All branding decisions must be cleared by the PCB before public use.
Strong interest ahead of the January 8 auction
The upcoming auction has already attracted potential investors from Pakistan, the UK, the US, and other regions, reflecting the growing global interest in franchise-based T20 cricket. Bidders are required to submit not only financial offers but also detailed branding elements — including proposed names and logos — in advance of final selection.
As PSL enters a new era of expansion, the PCB’s firm conditions appear aimed at preserving both the commercial value and credibility of the league, while offering attractive financial protections to new stakeholders.
