PSL to get two NEW teams — PCB bidding process sparks huge speculation!

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has formally invited bids for the acquisition of franchise rights for the seventh and eighth teams of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL), signalling the league’s first expansion since its establishment in 2016. The PCB bidding for new PSL franchises marks a major step toward league expansion.

In its official announcement, the board stated that interested parties may obtain the complete set of bid documents containing eligibility criteria, financial requirements, and procedural guidelines directly from the PCB. The expansion has been under discussion for several seasons, and the latest development marks the beginning of a structured process to add two new teams to Pakistan’s premier T20 competition.

The PCB confirmed that the deadline for submitting technical proposals is 15 December 2025 at 11:00 AM, while the proposals will be opened the same day at 11:30 AM in the presence of authorised representatives. Only those bidders who meet the technical qualifications will advance to the next phase, which includes financial evaluation.

The announcement emphasised that all official queries or additional information may be sought exclusively through the designated email address, psl@pcb.com.pk, adding that material obtained from any other source should not be considered authentic. The board also reiterated its right to amend, delay, or cancel the bidding process at any stage without assigning a reason, as well as to reject any bid prior to final acceptance.

The addition of two new franchises is expected to increase the total number of PSL teams from six to eight, potentially opening the door for representation from new regions and further broadening the league’s commercial footprint. The move aligns with the PCB’s long-term plan to expand the tournament’s reach, enhance competitive depth, and strengthen the league’s financial model.

Further details regarding the evaluation stages and final award of rights are expected to be shared once the technical assessment has been completed.