KARACHI:
The affairs of the Pakistan Super League are progressing as slowly as those of Test cricket. The valuation process for existing franchises has dragged on, delaying the sale of new teams and the renewal of commercial agreements. Even the dates for the 11th edition have not yet been finalized, and the current teams are growing frustrated with the situation.
According to details, separating Pakistan Super League (PSL) under the leadership of Salman Naseer has so far shown no visible benefits, as operations are moving at a very sluggish pace. There has been no contact with franchise owners, leaving them concerned. The valuation process has been prolonged, preventing the renewal of existing team agreements. The audit firm had contacted franchises for information, which they have already provided, but progress remains stalled.
Work on adding two new teams has also not begun, and even the model for their inclusion remains undecided. Initially, there was a proposal to hold the 11th edition at the end of this year, but later it was suggested to schedule it alongside the IPL in April or May next year. However, no official announcement has been made in this regard either.
The accounts for the 10th edition have not been finalized, and some key stakeholders have not made their payments yet. Important matters such as the extension of the 10-year title sponsorship deal, ground sponsorships (in 8–10 categories), domestic and international broadcast rights, live streaming, production, and other commercial agreements have not even started.
Sources revealed that Salman Naseer remains deeply involved in other PCB matters. During the Asia Cup, he was quite active as an Asian Cricket Council (ACC) official. He has also been unable to form his own dedicated team. A woman hired temporarily before the 10th edition was later made permanent, but questions remain over her effectiveness.
Franchise officials are reportedly frustrated. They had hoped for improvement under Salman Naseer’s leadership but now seem disheartened by the lack of progress.
To clarify the reasons behind the delays in PSL operations — including the inclusion of new teams and renewal of agreements — Express Tribune contacted Salman Naseer directly and also through the media department. Although he initially agreed to respond, several days have passed without any reply.