PCB is fully focused on preparations.
Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi announced Wasim Akram as brand ambassador for the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL).
The announcement was made during a press conference in Lahore, outlining major developments around the league.
“One good thing for PSL is that we have named Wasim Akram as the brand ambassador.”
Naqvi said Akram will actively promote the PSL and attend the auction of two PSL franchises scheduled.
He said: “On the day of the bid, he will be overseeing the auction process.”
The auction is planned for January 8, 2026, in Islamabad and has drawn strong international investor interest.
Naqvi stated the PCB is fully focused on preparations and expects competitive bidding prices from investors globally.
He confirmed that ten parties have qualified to participate after meeting the technical requirements set by PCB.
According to officials, twelve proposals were received from bidders across the world for the initial evaluation process.
Following scrutiny, the PCB Bid Committee advanced ten bidders to the auction stage after a transparent review.
The auction will take place at Islamabad’s Jinnah Convention Centre as officially announced.
Successful bidders will select franchise names from cities including Rawalpindi, Hyderabad, Faisalabad, Gilgit, Muzaffarabad, and Sialkot.
Naqvi also revealed that Multan Sultans will officially be auctioned after the upcoming PSL season concludes.
Until then, the PCB will operate the franchise during PSL 11 as an interim arrangement, confirmed publicly.
Naqvi clarified that Ali Tareen could own a new team if he wins the bidding process successfully there.
The PCB chairman said the league schedule may start on March 23 instead of March 26, 2026.
He added that the final decision will follow consultations with all participating franchises before the announcement is publicly made.
Naqvi also addressed international cricket issues involving conduct during the Under-19 Asia Cup tournament recently.
He confirmed the PCB wrote to the ICC regarding Indian players’ behaviour during the event matches.
Naqvi remarked that forced handshakes are unnecessary if sportsmanship is not reciprocated by opposing teams involved.
He said: “We too are not eager for handshakes.”
Meanwhile, the PCB reiterated strong global interest surrounding the expanded HBL Pakistan Super League structure plans.
Wasim Akram’s appointment is expected to enhance visibility.
Fans are excited as preparations accelerate for the upcoming season.
Mohsin Naqvi emphasised that investor confidence remains high as the board advances toward the expansion plans, to be announced soon.
The developments signal a significant phase for the PSL, both commercially and competitively, in the coming seasons.
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