The PSL expansion process has entered an important stage as the Pakistan Cricket Board confirmed another qualified bidder for the auction of two new franchises. The move signals steady progress toward expanding the Pakistan Super League ahead of its 11th season.
The PCB announced on Monday that VGO TEL Mobile has officially qualified as the third bidder for the upcoming PSL teams’ auction. The board shared the update through its official social media platforms, adding to the growing excitement around the league’s expansion.
According to the PCB, the auction for the two new franchises will take place on Thursday at the Jinnah Convention Centre in Islamabad. The tournament itself is scheduled to run from March 26 to May 3, marking another major season for Pakistan’s flagship T20 league.
Earlier on the same day, the PCB had already confirmed the first and second qualified bidders. This back-to-back confirmation has increased attention around the PSL expansion process, which will see the league grow from six teams to eight teams for the first time.
The expansion follows a detailed technical evaluation of proposals submitted by interested business groups. The PCB reviewed financial strength, operational capacity, and long-term commitment before shortlisting bidders for the auction.
One of the prominent names among the confirmed bidders is the Tareen Group, led by businessman Ali Khan Tareen. Tareen previously owned the Multan Sultans franchise and played a key role in shaping the team’s success.
Under his ownership, Multan Sultans emerged as one of the most consistent PSL teams. The franchise won the PSL title in 2021 and reached several finals, building a strong fan base across the country.
However, relations between Ali Khan Tareen and the PCB later became strained. Disagreements arose over franchise renewal terms and governance matters. Tareen was the only owner not offered a 10-year extension by the board.
The situation escalated after the PCB issued a legal notice over alleged contract violations. Following the dispute, Tareen announced his decision to exit the league in late 2025. His departure became effective at the end of the year, clearing the way for his return as a bidder in the current PSL expansion process.
Another confirmed contender is Karachi-based VGO TEL, led by Chief Executive Naveed Gaba. The company’s entry into the bidding race adds competition and diversity to the auction.
Once the auction concludes, the successful bidders will be allowed to select a home city. The PCB has approved several options, including Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Hyderabad, Sialkot, Muzaffarabad, and Gilgit.
The PCB believes the expansion will strengthen the league’s commercial value and fan engagement. Officials say the PSL expansion process aims to promote cricket in new regions while ensuring financial stability.
With fresh bidders stepping forward, anticipation continues to build as Pakistan’s premier T20 league prepares for its next chapter.
This development comes amid major changes in international cricket, with several senior players stepping away from the game. Recently, Usman Khawaja also announced his retirement from international cricket, marking the end of a remarkable career.
