Karachi: The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is set to expand to eight teams starting from the 2026 season. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed the addition of two new franchises to the league, which will make it one of the largest T20 leagues in the world.
The decision to expand the PSL comes after discussions between the PCB and existing franchise owners. The 2025 season will be the last with six teams before the league's expansion.
While the cities for the new franchises have yet to be announced, there is much anticipation among fans and stakeholders. The PSL has seen steady growth since its inception, with the Multan Sultans joining in 2018 as the only new team.
However, the expansion also introduces a new element of uncertainty. The ten-year ownership agreements for the existing franchises expire in 2025, and while they have the right of first refusal, there is a possibility of new owners entering the league.
In addition to expanding the league, the PCB is exploring ways to increase its global reach. Due to the hot weather in Pakistan during May, there is a possibility of hosting the playoffs and final of PSL 2025 in the UK.
This move would not only address the weather concerns but also showcase the PSL to a wider international audience. Hosting the tournament in the UK would also be more cost-effective than hosting it in the UAE, which has been the traditional venue for PSL matches outside Pakistan.
With these changes, the PCB aims to further elevate the PSL's status as a premier T20 league and attract more fans and sponsors.