Multan Sultans Owner Ali Tareen Exits PSL

The Pakistan Super League ($\text{PSL}$) is facing the loss of a major investor and a consistently successful franchise leader, as Ali Khan Tareen, the outspoken owner of the Multan Sultans, confirmed his decision to sever ties with the league. Tareen’s exit follows a protracted disagreement with the Pakistan Cricket Board ($\text{PCB}$) and the $\text{PSL}$ management regarding the renewal of the franchise contract.

In an emotional public farewell directed at the team’s dedicated supporters, Tareen, who is in his mid-thirties, explained his difficult choice:

“I recognize that my personality isn’t universally accepted, and I’ve come to terms with that. However, I have always committed to honesty and speaking my mind. I never learned to be cautious or simply conform,” the message read. “If continuing with this team means compromising those fundamental values, I have only one path to take. I prefer to lose this team standing tall rather than operate it on my knees. Therefore, this is goodbye.”

Breakdown of the Contractual Dispute

Tareen had been locked in constant opposition with the $\text{PSL}$ and $\text{PCB}$ leadership, often using social media to criticize what he viewed as unprofessional handling of league operations. His defiance peaked when he publicly tore up a show-cause notice from the $\text{PCB}$ demanding a public apology.

The final trigger for his departure was the $\text{PCB}$‘s failure to grant his renewal or share the mandatory franchise valuation report prepared by Ernst & Young ($\text{EY}$). Sources close to the situation confirmed:

• The $\text{PCB}$ was contractually obligated to provide the valuation report and a new offer letter, as the Multan Sultans were considered a compliant franchise (neither suspended nor terminated).

• The $\text{PCB}$ was in breach of contract by withholding this information. Furthermore, the Sultans had contributed financially to the cost of the $\text{EY}$ valuation exercise via $\text{PSL}$ funds.

• Tareen received a formal “Notice of Charge” from the $\text{PSL}$ on September 12, but despite his prompt reply on October 2, there has been a complete lack of communication from the league management since.

The Financial Cost and Legacy

The Multan Sultans were acquired by the Tareen group in 2018 for a record $6.3 million per year, making it the most expensive franchise in the league. Over the seven-year period, Tareen is estimated to have paid the $\text{PCB}$ approximately $44 million in franchise fees. Despite these heavy investments, a source indicated Tareen incurred significant losses, investing an estimated PKR 7.2 billion with only a PKR 1.7 billion return.

On the field, the Sultans were one of the league’s most successful franchises, winning the title in 2021 and reaching the final in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Tareen concluded his message by pleading with the fans to maintain their fierce loyalty, regardless of who assumes control of the franchise next, emphasizing that the team belongs to the region of South Punjab.

The $\text{PCB}$ now faces the challenge of finding three new owners, rather than two, as they proceed with their plans to expand the league to eight teams, with the franchise auction scheduled for the first week of January.

ImageCredits :cricbuzz