The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has escalated its dispute with the Multan Sultans, issuing a formal suspension notice to the Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise on grounds of breaching contractual obligations.
According to sources, the PCB has also sent a separate, formal notice for the termination of the franchise’s contract, asserting it has completed all necessary legal procedures. This move signifies a major intensification of the ongoing tensions between the league’s governing body and the franchise ownership.
Sources indicate that the disciplinary action was triggered by repeated public statements made by franchise owner Ali Tareen, which were allegedly critical of the PCB and PSL management.
The controversy began in April when Tareen shared a podcast clip on the social media platform X, questioning the board’s strategy for the upcoming season. He wrote, “How is PSL 10 bigger and better? Same games, same teams – what’s new? Fed up with hollow words. PCB had time to plan innovations, but we’re repeating last year. Our biggest brand deserves more. Explain the vision!”
Facing backlash from other franchise owners, Tareen attempted to clarify his position a few days later, stating, “I love PSL – it’s a MADE-IN-PAKISTAN success story we all benefit from. My words were about pushing for real growth, not negativity. Salman Naseer & PCB team are giving their all. Let’s unite as owners to back them and elevate the league. No more stagnation!”
However, the friction continued. In July, Tareen renewed his criticism in response to a PCB video celebrating the success of PSL 10. He commented, “Applause? You must be kidding. TV ratings down, attendance plummeting, digital engagement slowing – yet we’re celebrating? PCB, wake up. PSL deserves better planning, not self-congratulation. Time to fix these issues before it’s too late.”
A PCB source stated that these repeated public remarks “damaged the league’s reputation and violated the terms of the agreement.” The board’s legal notice is reported to specify the exact clauses of the franchise agreement that were breached. PCB officials emphasized the board’s commitment to upholding the PSL’s integrity and professional standards.
In response to the development, a Multan Sultans spokesperson clarified to Dawn on Thursday that “the PCB has sent a legal notice which is not a notice of termination,” suggesting a distinction between the suspension and a final termination of the contract.
This dispute arises amid growing concerns over the relationship between the PCB and PSL franchises, with several stakeholders calling for more transparent and consistent dealings from the cricket board.
