The Pakistan Super League is set for a major expansion, with the Pakistan Cricket Board officially announcing the auction date for two new franchise teams.
A Historic Expansion for HBL PSL
The Pakistan Cricket Board confirmed in a press release that the auction for the two new PSL franchises will take place on January 6, 2026. This move marks a significant evolution for the tournament, which has operated with six teams since its inception a decade ago.
This expansion will bring the total number of competing teams to eight for the eleventh edition of the league in 2026. The PCB emphasizes that this step represents a crucial milestone in the league's ongoing growth and its dedication to strengthening cricket's presence throughout Pakistan.
Shortlisted Cities for New Franchises
The board has revealed a shortlist of six cities from which the new team owners can choose. The successful bidders from the auction will have the right to select their team's city and name from this pool. The shortlisted cities are:
- Faisalabad
- Rawalpindi
- Hyderabad
- Sialkot
- Muzaffarabad
- Gilgit
It is important to note that participation in this landmark auction will be restricted. Only technically qualified bidders will receive an invitation to take part in the proceedings on January 6, 2026.
New Opportunities and Global Stature
The addition of two new teams is expected to unlock a wave of fresh opportunities across multiple domains. This includes new commercial and sponsorship avenues, enhanced sporting competition with more local players getting a platform, and novel ways for fans to engage with the league.
The HBL PSL has firmly established itself as one of the premier T20 leagues in the world, renowned for its high-quality cricket, growing commercial power, and massive fan following. The PCB and PSL management have expressed their enthusiasm about welcoming new stakeholders into the HBL PSL ecosystem. They believe this expansion will further elevate the league's profound impact on the future of Pakistan cricket.
