The PSL has finalized its most expensive media rights deal in history. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) sold four-year rights to Walee Technologies for Rs. 26.11 billion. This deal will provide the PCB with roughly Rs. 6.5 billion annually.
Walee Technologies, which owns the Rawalpindi franchise, submitted the highest combined bid covering both television broadcast and digital streaming rights. The matches are expected to be aired on the state-run television network.
Three companies participated in the bidding. Two competed for television rights, while one bid only for digital streaming. Walee’s offer of Rs. 26 billion surpassed the reserve price of Rs. 23.5 billion, including Rs. 16.5 billion for TV rights and the rest for live streaming.
A private sports channel bid Rs. 9 billion for television rights only. Another company offered Rs. 3.5 billion for digital rights. Two major sports channels were disqualified due to unpaid dues of Rs. 470 million and over Rs. 600 million. Both failed to clear their payments despite being given time.
The PCB prohibited consortium bids to avoid collusion. Companies were allowed to bid separately for television, digital, or both rights. The bid security for each category was set at Rs. 100 million, which will be adjusted for the winning bidder. Unsuccessful bidders will receive refunds.
Last season, the PSL featured 34 matches. With the addition of two new teams, the total matches will increase to 44. According to league rules, if a broadcast deal exceeds Rs. 3 billion after production costs, an additional $500,000 will be allocated for signing foreign icon players.
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From the remaining revenue, 80% goes to the PCB, and 20% is shared among franchises. The deal marks a historic milestone for the PSL, increasing its financial value and ensuring broader coverage for fans.
