The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise owners have yet to agree on the scheduling for next year’s T20 tournament, which could clash with the IPL if held in the proposed April-May window. The usual February-March timeframe for the PSL is unavailable due to the ICC Champions Trophy being hosted in Pakistan and other international commitments.
Franchise owners are also awaiting their share of revenue from the previous PSL, where low attendance at some venues raised concerns.
“Holding the PSL in the same window as the IPL is a huge risk, and the main issue could be availability of premium players, plus eyeballs on TV and digital media for the PSL matches,” a franchise official stated.
The PCB has suggested an April-May window for PSL 2025, but franchise owners are wary of competing with the IPL, which attracts top players and significant financial backing. The PCB has proposed allowing franchises to negotiate directly with foreign players to secure commitments before the IPL auction.
“We have been told we can at least confirm negotiations with 1-2 marquee players. But it is not final yet,” the official added.
Since its inception, the PSL has been the PCB’s main revenue generator, but the situation has shifted since 2023.
Name of Author: Cricexec Staff