KARACHI: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has finalized the most expensive media rights deal in HBL PSL history. Walee Technologies has won the four-year contract for Rs 26 billion. The PCB will receive approximately Rs 6.5 billion per year from the agreement.
Walee Technologies, also the owner of the Pindi franchise, secured both broadcast and digital rights. Matches are expected to air on the state-run television network. This deal marks a significant increase compared to the previous two-year contract, which was worth Rs 6.5 billion annually.
Three companies participated in the bidding process. Two companies competed for TV rights, while one focused solely on digital streaming. Walee’s combined bid of Rs 26 billion surpassed the reserve price of Rs 23.5 billion. Other bidders offered Rs 9 billion for TV rights and Rs 3.5 billion for digital rights.
The PCB recently issued an advertisement for the four-year PSL media rights, attracting several potential bidders. Two major sports channels were disqualified due to outstanding dues of Rs 470 million and Rs 600 million. The board allowed time for payments, but both channels failed to resolve the issue. The review committee also rejected another channel’s request on Friday.
To prevent collusion, the PCB prohibited consortium bids. Companies were allowed to bid for broadcast rights, live streaming, or both. Bid security for each category was set at Rs 100 million. Refunds will be issued to unsuccessful bidders, while the winning bid will be adjusted accordingly.
Last year, the PSL featured 34 matches. With the addition of two new teams, the 2026 edition will include 44 matches. According to PCB regulations, after production expenses, any broadcast deal exceeding Rs 3 billion will allocate an extra $500,000 for signing icon foreign cricketers. The remaining revenue is shared 80% to the PCB and 20% to the franchises.
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Production expenses last year exceeded Rs 1 billion. This year, the PCB is obtaining a bank guarantee of Rs 6.5 billion from Walee Technologies to secure timely payment. The 11th edition of the HBL PSL is scheduled to begin on March 26, 2026.
