Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has projected a major rise for the Pakistan Super League (PSL), claiming it is on a path to become the world’s leading franchise competition—while also acknowledging that the tournament will continue to run alongside the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2026. His comments came at a meeting of the PCB Board of Governors, where the board assessed both the PSL’s growth trajectory and a number of recent off-field developments.
Key takeaways
- Mohsin Naqvi believes the PSL is heading toward becoming the top franchise league globally, even as it overlaps with the IPL in 2026.
- The current PSL campaign is being staged behind closed doors at two venues due to a fuel crisis in Pakistan.
- PCB officials noted strong interest in the PSL 2026 franchise auction, viewing it as a sign of confidence in Pakistan cricket.
- Naqvi highlighted a major financial gap between the leagues, citing IPL media rights above $6 billion versus PSL media rights around $93 million.
- Several off-field disciplinary actions have followed this PSL season, including bans, fines, and on-field penalties.
PSL growth ambitions as 2026 IPL overlap approaches
Speaking to the PCB Board of Governors, Naqvi said the PSL is increasingly positioning itself as a prime destination for investment. He pointed out that the league is already functioning as a meaningful platform for commercial interest and suggested further expansion is on the way.
Naqvi also compared the league’s current momentum to its longer-term aspirations, stating that the PSL has become the “best market for investment” and adding that it is only a matter of time before it reaches the very top globally.
Closed-door staging and franchise auction response
This season’s PSL matches are being conducted behind closed doors at two venues, a decision linked to a fuel crisis in Pakistan. The PCB’s assessment also contrasted the PSL’s current set-up with the IPL, which is being played across multiple grounds with spectators present.
The Board of Governors further discussed the franchise auction for PSL 2026. The PCB stated that the auction drew a strong response, and Naqvi said investor engagement is evidence of confidence in the future of Pakistan cricket.
Financial gap: IPL media rights and revenue vs PSL
While Naqvi remains optimistic about the PSL’s trajectory, the PCB acknowledged there is a substantial gap between the PSL and the IPL on financial measures. It said IPL media rights are valued at more than $6 billion, whereas PSL media rights are roughly $93 million.
The board also cited revenue differences, stating that IPL annual earnings are over $1 billion, compared with an estimated $50–60 million for the PSL.
Off-field disciplinary cases during PSL 2026
The PSL 2026 season has also included several developments beyond the playing surface. Lahore Qalandars were hit with a five-run penalty in a match connected to a ball-tampering incident.
Fakhar Zaman was later found guilty in a separate matter and received a two-match ban.
Another case involved Shaheen Afridi and Sikandar Raza, who were accused of bringing unauthorised visitors into a team hotel. Police said it amounted to a breach, and Afridi was fined under the code of conduct.
Naseem Shah was also sanctioned, receiving a fine of PKR 20 million for a social media post that criticised politician Maryam Nawaz. He later said the post was made without his knowledge, but the PCB still imposed the penalty.
