The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially responded to recent criticisms made by Multan Sultans owner Ali Tareen regarding the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
Ali Tareen had voiced strong concerns about the management of PSL, which led to a reply from the PCB. The board stated that public criticism from a franchise owner right before the league’s start appears to be an attempt to stir controversy. While the PSL Code of Conduct permits disciplinary action against such behavior, the PCB clarified that it is refraining from doing so to avoid damaging the league’s reputation.
Read more: Multan Sultans Owner Ali Tareen Criticizes PSL Over Ali Zafar’s Selection
A senior PCB representative explained that any issues or grievances should be addressed through proper channels by contacting the board directly. He pointed out that the individual making the complaints neither regularly attends meetings nor brings up these matters during official discussions. The PCB, he added, is not looking for confrontation and has always kept its efforts to develop the league transparent and open.
The official further shared that the board doesn’t seek unnecessary praise for its progress. He highlighted this year’s developments, including the introduction of Urdu commentary, technological improvements in umpiring, and other innovations. Considering a competing league is also taking place in a neighboring country, the PCB believes retaliating now could harm the PSL’s public image.
He also addressed Ali Tareen’s criticism regarding singer Ali Zafar, saying Tareen reacted prematurely after hearing his name, without waiting for the announcement of the other three performers. The official reminded that legal proceedings against Ali Zafar had already been dismissed, and reviving the issue only reignites unnecessary controversy.
Ali Tareen, known as the youngest owner in PSL history, recently launched a fierce critique of the PCB’s handling of the league. He expressed frustration over repetitive claims that every season is “the biggest and best,” calling the current leadership unserious. Tareen argued that franchise owners lack any real control or long-term ownership of their teams.
He clarified that his remarks weren’t personal attacks but rather a call for transparency. He urged the PCB to publicly share any concrete plans for PSL’s future growth. He expressed concern about how Pakistan’s most successful sports brand is being managed and questioned what meaningful innovations are being introduced this season. As an example, he pointed to the Big Bash League’s creative features, such as split powerplays, which have enhanced fan engagement.
Tareen also criticized the existing “rental model,” under which franchises merely lease their teams annually, lacking true ownership rights. He compared this to the IPL, which allows foreign investment and grants franchise owners long-term control. He concluded by noting that the PCB has yet to reveal a clear strategy for expanding the league to eight teams in its 11th edition. Without a proper revenue-sharing structure and real team ownership, he warned, the league could face serious complications in the future.
