Why did former Multan Sultans owner Ali Tareen withdraw from PSL Team Auction?

Former Multan Sultans owner Ali Khan Tareen withdrew from the Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise auction for two new teams, adding intrigue to the high-stakes event in Islamabad.

The PSL is expanding

from six to eight franchises ahead of its landmark 11th season in 2026, scheduled between March 26 and May 3. Tareen's last-minute decision, announced on social media just before bidding began at the Jinnah Convention Centre, caught many by surprise as he was seen as a frontrunner.

The auction was supposed to feature 10 qualified bidders, including Aim Next inc, Deharki Sugar Mills, FKS, Inverex Solar, i2c, Jazz, OZ Developers, Prism Developers, VGO TEL, and Walee Pakistan, vying for teams representing cities like Rawalpindi, Hyderabad, Faisalabad, Gilgit, Muzaffarabad, or Sialkot.

After Tareen's exclusion, the nine bidders put their stake in, as US-based FKS roped in the Hyderabad franchise for £4.61m (INR 55.6 crore), while Australia-based real estate consortium OZ Developers bagged the deal for Sialkot franchise for £4.87m (INR 58.8 crore).

Tareen's Emotional Withdrawal

Tareen emphasized his deep ties to South Punjab over business interests. "After careful consideration, my family and I have decided not to participate in today's PSL franchise auction," he posted on X.

He added, "Our time with Multan Sultans was never just about owning a cricket team. It was about South Punjab. About giving a voice to a region that had been overlooked for too long. "

Tareen plans to support the league as a fan: "This year, I'll be in the stands. Cheering for players on and celebrating with the fans. "

History of Tensions

Tareen's PSL journey has been marked by drama, including public clashes with PCB over franchise renewals and policies. He previously exited Multan Sultans amid financial disputes, tearing up a PCB show-cause notice on camera and criticizing league management. Despite past friction, he hinted at a future return.

"And when the Multan team is being sold, we'll be ready. "