Well done Moshin Maqvi, A dynamic leader , PCB’s Historic Auction: A New Era for the HBL PSL
In a landmark moment for Pakistan’s premier cricket competition, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) successfully concluded a historic auction for two new teams, expanding the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) from six to eight franchises. This major development took place at the Jinnah Convention Centre in Islamabad on January 8, 2026, under the dynamic leadership of PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, and is widely viewed as a turning point in the league’s growth and commercial evolution.
A Strategic Expansion of the PSL
Since its inception in 2016 with five teams and later expansion to six in 2018, the PSL has remained a cornerstone of Pakistan’s sporting calendar. The 2026 auction marks its first major expansion in seven years, ushering in a new era of competition, investment and fan engagement.
Under Naqvi’s leadership, the PCB embarked on an extensive global outreach campaign ahead of the auction, including high profile roadshows in London and New York to attract international investors and showcase the PSL’s commercial potential. Interest from across Europe, the United States, the Middle East, and beyond contributed to making this auction one of the most eagerly anticipated events in the league’s history.
The Auction and Record Bids
The live high stakes auction was broadcast across multiple platforms and attracted vibrant bidding from ten qualified investors, including international and local corporate groups. Two cities were eventually selected as the homes of the new franchises:
• Hyderabad — Acquired by the US-based FKS Group, led by Fawad Sarwar, with a bid of PKR 1.75 billion.
• Sialkot — Secured by OZ Developers, led by Hamza Majeed, with a record bid of PKR 1.85 billion making it the highest single franchise fee in PSL auction history.
These record breaking bids, worth a combined PKR 3.6 billion, reflect not only the strong commercial traction of the league but also growing confidence among investors in Pakistan cricket’s future.
Leadership and Vision of Mohsin Naqvi
At the helm during this historic auction, Mohsin Naqvi has emphasized the broader strategic importance of the expansion. As PCB Chairman, he has consistently championed initiatives aimed at increasing the league’s global footprint, enhancing transparency in bidding processes, and strengthening the commercial viability of the PSL as a world-class T20 competition.
Mohsin Naqvi hailed the success of the auction as a significant achievement not just for the board but for Pakistan cricket at large. He highlighted the enthusiastic participation of overseas Pakistanis and international business groups as a strong vote of confidence in the PSL’s brand, signaling deeper global engagement and future growth opportunities.
Economic and Sporting Impact
The auction’s outcome marked by unprecedented franchise fees and intense competitive bidding underscores the economic potential of the PSL. With the inclusion of Hyderabad and Sialkot, the league will now feature eight teams in its 11th edition, scheduled to run from March 26 to May 3, 2026.
This growth carries significant benefits:
• Stronger regional representation within Pakistan, bringing the excitement of PSL cricket to new fan bases.
• Enhanced commercial revenue for the PCB and stakeholders, supporting long-term development programs.
• Increased opportunities for domestic and international talent to compete on a global stage.
Looking Ahead
The expansion of the HBL PSL, facilitated by one of the most successful auctions in its history, marks a new chapter for Pakistan cricket. Under Mohsin Naqvi’s leadership, the PCB has not only achieved a historic commercial milestone but has also set the stage for deeper global integration, larger investor participation, and sustained growth within the league.
As fans and stakeholers prepare for the upcoming season, the addition of Hyderabad and Sialkot symbolizes both heritage and ambition blending traditional cricketing passion with modern sports business dynamics, and reinforcing the PSL’s outstanding ranking among the world’s leading T20 leagues.