Islamabad: Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, while discussing in detail the future of the PSL, the expansion of teams and international cricket affairs, said that the board is taking several important decisions to make the league stronger and more stable.
He said that 10 parties have qualified for the inclusion of two new teams in the PSL, which is clear proof of the growing popularity of the league. According to him, the bidding of the teams will be held on January 8 in Islamabad, which he calls a historic day for the PCB.
Mohsin Naqvi said that this year, Multan Sultans will be run by the PCB itself, while it will be auctioned after the end of the league. He stressed that the sale of the teams will be ensured under a transparent and professional procedure.
He added that strengthening Pakistan Shaheens is also among the PCB’s priorities so that a better platform can be provided to future national players. Regarding the coach of the Red Ball team, he said that consultations are still underway on this and a decision will be taken soon.
Expressing concern over the behaviour of the Indian U-19 team, Mohsin Naqvi said that the matter will be formally raised with the ICC. He said that Pakistan will continue to develop cricket relations on the basis of respect and equality.
He also said that three T20 matches have been scheduled for the home series against Australia, while discussions are underway on other formats.
According to cricket analysts, the PCB’s decision to expand the PSL and increase the number of teams is an important step towards financial stability. Experts say that if the new teams are selected in a transparent manner, both the competitiveness and quality of the league will increase, which will ultimately prove beneficial for Pakistan cricket.
