PSL Franchises Await Revenue Share Amid Potential Scheduling Conflict
Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchises are still awaiting their revenue share from the ninth edition due to unresolved dues from key stakeholders. With the tenth edition approaching, concerns are growing over unresolved financial matters and potential scheduling conflicts that could disrupt the league’s usual timeline.
A new proposal has surfaced allowing PSL franchises to negotiate direct contracts with foreign players. This would enable teams to approach international stars and offer them higher salaries in an effort to attract more marquee talent to the league. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) plans to support this initiative by contributing a portion of the payment, with $500,000 having already been allocated for this purpose from the broadcast deal. A similar arrangement is expected next year.
One of the major hurdles ahead of PSL 2025 is a potential scheduling overlap with the Indian Premier League (IPL). The PCB has suggested a window from April 10 to May 25 for the upcoming season, but the overlap with the IPL could lead to the unavailability of key players and a possible dip in revenue. The triangular series scheduled outside the Future Tours Program (FTP) and the 2025 Champions Trophy are also factors that may impact the PSL’s usual dates.
Sources indicate that franchises have requested the PCB to assess the possible consequences of holding the PSL during the IPL, particularly in terms of media and commercial deals. However, neither the PCB nor the franchises are willing to take responsibility for scheduling the PSL to coincide with IPL dates.
The situation has led to disagreements between the franchises and the board. Franchises have expressed frustration over the lack of clarity in scheduling decisions. While the PCB claims the dates were decided collectively, teams argue they were not given a real choice. Initially, there were discussions about holding the tournament in October or November, but this was later denied. The idea of hosting matches in June or July was also considered, despite the extreme summer heat in Pakistan. An alternative plan to hold the playoffs in England was explored, but the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) ultimately apologized for not being able to accommodate the request.
As the next edition of the PSL approaches, it remains to be seen how the scheduling and financial challenges will be resolved. Fans and franchises alike are hopeful that these issues will be addressed in time for a successful tournament.
