PSL 2026: Ex-Multan Sultans owner pulls out from new franchise auction

Published - 08 Jan 2026, 19:16 IST | Updated - 08 Jan 2026, 22:49 IST

In a dramatic turn of events at the Pakistan Super League 2026 franchise auction, the former Multan Sultans owner, Ali Khan Tareen, has officially made a statement that he will not take part in the bidding process for the new teams that will be added to the league.

The PSL is set to get bigger with two new teams being added, as per the original plans of the Pakistan Cricket Board to expand the scope of the league. With this arrangement, the participating teams will increase from six to eight.

Tareen, who previously owned the Multan Sultans franchise, confirmed his decision on social media just before the auction. He surprised everyone with his announcement, as he was expected to be one of the prominent bidders at the auction. In his message, Tareen explained that his journey with the PSL was never only about business or team ownership, but has a deeper connection.

"After careful consideration, my family and I have decided not to participate in today’s PSL franchise auction. Our time with Multan Sultans was never just about owning a cricket team. It was about South Punjab. About giving a voice to a region that had been overlooked for too long. That’s what drove everything we built," he wrote.

He further added that even though he won’t be an owner, he will enjoy the league as a fan, while hinting that he might come back as an owner, especially if Multan becomes available again.

"If I come back to PSL, it has to be for the same reason. South Punjab is where my heart is. It is home. This year, I’ll be in the stands. Cheering for players on and celebrating with the fans.  And when the Multan team is being sold, we’ll be ready. Wishing all the bidders the best. May the most outspoken owner win!," he concluded.

After careful consideration, my family and I have decided not to participate in today’s PSL franchise auction.Our time with Multan Sultans was never just about owning a cricket team. It was about South Punjab. About giving a voice to a region that had been overlooked for too…

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Tareen had left the team last year following a prolonged and bitter dispute with the PSL management. Following this, the team will be operated by the PCB for the upcoming season. The franchise is set to be put up for sale after the 2026 season concludes.