KARACHI – Pakistan Super League’s (PSL) 11th edition is expected to be held in April and May 2026, potentially clashing once again with the Indian Premier League (IPL).
In such a scenario, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) may be forced to reschedule its home series against Zimbabwe.
Traditionally held in February and March, the PSL was shifted to April-May this year due to Pakistan hosting the ICC Champions Trophy. This led to a direct overlap with the IPL.
In 2026, with the ICC T20 World Cup scheduled in February-March, the PSL will once again require a new window.
Although an early window in December-January was initially proposed, several unresolved administrative and operational matters have made an early start appear unlikely. PCB may instead utilize that window for a domestic Pentangular Cup featuring top national players.
Earlier this year, the PSL was announced as a separate commercial entity, with Salman Naseer appointed as its CEO. However, major appointments in other departments are still pending. With 10 successful seasons completed, the six existing franchises are now up for valuation, and a 25% increase in franchise fees is expected.
While all teams had reaffirmed their commitment to retain ownership last December, Multan Sultans’ owner Ali Tareen later expressed concerns over financial losses. He has since remained silent, and it remains unclear whether he will retain the franchise or opt for a rebid. The franchise currently pays over PKR 1 billion annually — the highest among all teams.
The PCB had also announced the inclusion of two new franchises for PSL 11, but there has been no concrete progress so far. The league’s long-term title sponsorship deal is also due for renewal, along with several other key commercial agreements. Ground sponsorship is expected to include 8 to 10 categories, and both domestic and international broadcast and live streaming rights will go through a fresh bidding process.
At present, the PCB earns approximately PKR 900 million annually from title sponsorship. Last year, live streaming rights were sold for PKR 1.8 billion, local broadcast rights brought in PKR 6.3 billion, and international broadcast rights fetched USD 4.6 million. Ground rights were sold for PKR 2 billion for a two-year period, and a TV production deal worth USD 2.25 million per year was also signed.
The addition of two new franchises would increase the total number of PSL matches from 34 to 54, potentially boosting the value of commercial deals by up to 30%. However, it is still undecided whether the new franchises will be accommodated under the existing financial model or a revised one. Sources within current franchises confirmed that the board has not yet initiated discussions with them on this matter.
Though official dates for PSL 11 have not been finalized, April and May 2026 appear to be the most likely window. Franchise owners have already sent a joint email requesting a meeting of the PSL Governing Council to discuss key matters. A response is expected after Eid holidays.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s international cricket calendar remains packed.
A home series against Sri Lanka comprising three ODIs and three T20Is is scheduled for November. The December-January window is reserved for domestic competitions. Australia will tour Pakistan in February for three T20Is and return in March for three ODIs.
Pakistan is also scheduled to tour Bangladesh in late March and April for two Tests, three ODIs, and three T20Is.
Zimbabwe’s tour of Pakistan for three ODIs and three T20Is is planned for April-May. If the PSL is held during this period, the home series will need to be rescheduled.
While earlier concerns about date clashes with the IPL have diminished after the successful 10th edition, the broadcasters and rights holders remain cautious.
A final decision regarding PSL 11’s schedule is expected in the coming weeks.
