(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
PSL Season X: Ali Tareen Voices Concerns Amid Growing Tensions with PCB
The landmark Season X of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) delivered many memorable moments on the field. However, it also highlighted rising tensions between Multan Sultans owner Ali Tareen and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
Criticism of PCB’s PSL Celebration
Recently, the PCB held a debriefing session in Lahore to update stakeholders on the league’s progress over the past year, followed by a video showcasing overall satisfaction with the PSL’s growth.
In response, Ali Tareen took to social media to challenge this positive narrative. He pointed out several areas where, in his view, the league has faced setbacks.
Declining Viewership and Attendance
Tareen highlighted a drop in television viewership and expressed concern over fans’ dwindling interest in attending matches, noting notably empty stadiums in Karachi and Lahore during PSL X. He also mentioned a slowdown in social media engagement compared to previous seasons.
Operational Challenges and Call for Improvements
Beyond the numbers, Tareen criticized the operational aspects of the tournament. He described team logistics as “shambolic” and called the player draft process “comical,” arguing that these issues undermine the league’s professionalism.
“Applause? You must be kidding,” Tareen wrote, urging the PCB to focus on solving these problems rather than celebrating prematurely. “Skip the victory lap and address the slide. Fans notice.”
Ongoing Disputes Between Ali Tareen and PCB
Ali Tareen’s criticisms are not new. Throughout the PSL season, he consistently voiced concerns about the league’s management and called on the PCB to take meaningful action to improve the tournament’s standards.