Islamabad, November 24, 2025: Three of the Pakistan Super League’s (PSL) most prominent franchises, Lahore Qalandars, Peshawar Zalmi, and Quetta Gladiators, have formally renewed their franchise rights for another decade, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced on Monday.
The renewal agreements, finalized at market valuations determined by global audit firm Ernst & Young after what the PCB described as a “comprehensive and transparent assessment,” come ahead of the league’s expansion to eight teams from its 11th edition next year.
Lahore Qalandars: leading the way
Lahore Qalandars, the PSL’s most valuable franchise and winners of three of the last four editions under Pakistan ODI captain Shaheen Shah Afridi, were among the first to extend their rights.
“It gives me immense pleasure that Lahore Qalandars will continue to stay with its current owners,” PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi said. “Atif Rana and Sameen Rana have worked extremely hard to turn this franchise into a household name across Pakistan and a reputable brand around the world.”
Peshawar Zalmi: A fan favorite
Peshawar Zalmi, champions in 2017 and one of the league’s most recognisable brands, also renewed its decade-long franchise rights. Under the leadership of Javed Afridi, the franchise has cultivated a strong fan base and was the most-watched team during the last PSL season, according to the PCB.
Naqvi lauded Afridi’s “commitment, professionalism, and passion,” noting that his leadership had elevated Zalmi into one of Pakistan’s most dynamic and admired sporting entities.
“His decision to renew reflects a strong belief in the league’s future potential,” the PCB chairman added.
Quetta Gladiators: Third franchise secures renewal
The 2019 champions Quetta Gladiators have also renewed their PSL franchise contract for the next 10-year cycle, with Nadeem Omar retaining ownership.
“Mr. Nadeem Omar and his team have played a vital role in building a loyal fan base and elevating the franchise’s stature both locally and internationally,” Naqvi said, praising Omar’s professionalism and passion for cricket.
With these renewals, three of the six existing PSL franchises have formally secured their participation for the next decade, paving the way for the upcoming 11th edition, which will feature new teams yet to be finalised.
Following the independent valuation process, the PCB issued renewal offer letters detailing revised franchise fees. Interested parties now have the opportunity to bid for two new franchises, with shortlisted city names including:
- Hyderabad
- Sialkot
- Muzaffarabad
- Faisalabad
- Gilgit
- Rawalpindi
The PCB emphasised that the valuation and renewal process was conducted with complete transparency, including joint and individual meetings between franchise officials and EY MENA.
“The renewal of these franchises not only strengthens the commercial foundation of the PSL but also signals the league’s upward trajectory and growing global appeal,” the PCB said in a statement.
The next PSL season is expected to witness heightened competition and fan engagement, with more teams joining the league and existing franchises maintaining their long-term commitment to Pakistan’s premier T20 competition.
