All 10 Bidders for New PSL Teams Revealed
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially announced that ten groups have qualified to compete for two new franchise licenses in the upcoming auction. This expansion marks a significant milestone for the Pakistan Super League (PSL), as the league will grow from six teams to eight, attracting new investors and opportunities.
Official List of Qualified Bidders
The PCB bid committee shortlisted ten groups from twelve global proposals, comprising leaders from Pakistan’s technology, energy, and finance sectors.
1. **Inverex Solar Energy**: As the largest solar energy brand in Pakistan, Inverex has secured the top bidder position. Their goal is to connect “green energy” with sports.
2. **OZ Group/OZI Developers**: Australian investor Hamza Majeed leads this group, which specialises in real estate and lifestyle housing. They plan to make significant investments in sports.
3. **VGO TEL Mobile**: This Karachi-based mobile manufacturing company represents the tech sector. Under the leadership of Naveed Gaba, VGO TEL aims to establish a tech-driven team that appeals to the youth.
4. **Jazz (Telecom)**: As the largest digital operator in Pakistan, Jazz’s participation will enhance the league’s digital presence. Jazz is already a leader in cricket streaming through its Tamasha app.
5. **DSM Tareen Group**: The return of Ali Khan Tareen has become a significant headline in this auction. The Tareen Group achieved success with Multan Sultans and is now entering again with a renewed vision.
6. **i2x**: This global fintech platform, led by Aamir Waien, is well-known for its work in international payments and banking technology, offering the potential to elevate the PSL to a global standard.
7. **Walee Tech**: Specialising in media and influencer marketing, this group aims to transform the digital viewership and social media presence of the PSL.
8. **Prism Developers + Exchange ON**: This consortium of real estate and digital trading experts intends to channel investment from the property sector into the cricket ecosystem.
9. **Kingsmen Group**: With experience in investment and wealth management, this group focuses on operating the franchise as a stable commercial asset.
10. **Aim Next Inc.**: An innovation- and technology-driven company, Aim Next Inc. aims to revitalise the PSL through branding and modern marketing techniques.
Auction and Venue Details
The new team auction is scheduled for 8 January 2026, at the Jinnah Convention Center in Islamabad. A significant highlight of this event is that the legendary cricketer and PSL 11 Brand Ambassador, Wasim Akram, will personally lead the auction and oversee the bidding process.
Approved Home Cities for New Teams
The two new owners will need to choose their home city from the list provided by the PCB:
– **Faisalabad**: Known as an industrial hub, this city puts fans under significant pressure.
– **Sialkot**: A historic centre of cricket, where locals eagerly await the return of the Sialkot Stallions.
– **Rawalpindi**: The “Pindi Boys” culture generates a unique enthusiasm for the representation of the Twin Cities.
– **Hyderabad, Muzaffarabad, and Gilgit**: These cities have been included to promote regional diversity and discover new talent.
Financial and Operational Framework
The PCB has established the annual base price for new franchises at approximately Rs. 1.3 billion ($4.6 million USD). In exchange for this investment, owners will earn a share from the central revenue pool to ensure their financial stability.
HBL PSL 11 Expansion FAQs
When will the two new teams join the PSL?
Two new franchises will be added to the PSL’s 11th edition, which will be held from 26 March to 3 May 2026. With this expansion, the total number of teams will increase from 6 to 8.
Who officially cleared the bidders for the auction?
The PCB Bid Committee made this decision after conducting a three-day evaluation of 12 global proposals, covering both technical and financial aspects.
Is Ali Khan Tareen’s participation officially confirmed?
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has confirmed that Ali Khan Tareen will be eligible to bid on 29 December 2025, as his previous agreement with the Multan Sultans fully ends on 31 December 2025.
What are the possible home cities for the new teams?
The successful bidder must select one city from six options: Faisalabad, Sialkot, Rawalpindi, Hyderabad, Muzaffarabad, or Gilgit. Hamza Majeed, representing OZ Groups, has expressed interest in Faisalabad and Sialkot.
