Maps
Magazine

SPORTS

PCB Suspends Multan Sultans Over Alleged Contract Breach, Issues Termination Notice
The PCB has suspended PSL franchise Multan Sultans, accusing owner Ali Tareen of breaching contract terms through repeated public criticism. Tensions escalate as the board issues a termination notice after legal review.
MH
by Muhammad Hashir
2025-10-23
PCB Suspends Multan Sultans Over Alleged Contract Breach, Issues Termination Notice

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued a suspension notice to Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Multan Sultans, citing violations of contractual obligations — a move that signals a deepening rift between the cricket board and one of its most high-profile franchises.

According to sources, the PCB has also dispatched a formal termination notice to the franchise “after completing all necessary legal procedures.” The decision follows a series of public statements made by Multan Sultans owner Ali Tareen, who repeatedly criticized the PCB and PSL management on social media.

In April, Ali Tareen shared a podcast clip questioning the PCB’s approach to the league’s growth, writing on X:

“How is PSL 10 bigger and better? Same games, same teams – what’s new? Fed up with hollow words. PCB had time to plan innovations, but we’re repeating last year. Our biggest brand deserves more. Explain the vision!”

Following backlash, Tareen attempted to clarify his remarks, emphasizing that his comments were meant to “push for growth, not negativity.”

“I love PSL — it’s a MADE-IN-PAKISTAN success story we all benefit from. My words were about pushing for real growth, not negativity. Salman Naseer & PCB team are giving their all. Let’s unite as owners to back them and elevate the league. No more stagnation!”

However, tensions reignited in July after the PCB released a post-season video celebrating PSL 10’s “success.” Tareen criticized the board once again, saying:

“Applause? You must be kidding. TV ratings down, attendance plummeting, digital engagement slowing — yet we’re celebrating? PCB, wake up. PSL deserves better planning, not self-congratulation.”

A PCB official stated that such remarks “damaged the league’s reputation and violated key terms of the franchise agreement.” The notice reportedly specifies the contractual clauses that were breached.

In response, a Multan Sultans spokesperson told Dawn that the “PCB has sent a legal notice which is not a notice of termination,” suggesting that the franchise may contest the board’s claims.

The development highlights broader concerns over franchise-board relations within the PSL ecosystem. Several team owners have quietly expressed frustration over inconsistent decision-making and communication gaps within the PCB.

While the PCB insists it is acting “to uphold the league’s integrity and professional standards,” the dispute has raised questions about transparency, governance, and the future of private franchise participation in Pakistan’s flagship T20 league.
Tagged:

pcb

psl

MultanSultans

AliTareen
Share News: