PSL 11 Likely to Clash with IPL Again; Schedule, New Teams, and Commercial Deals Under Review

Karachi:The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is once again expected to take place in April and May next year, possibly overlapping with the Indian Premier League (IPL), just like its 10th edition. Due to this, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) may need to reschedule its home series against Zimbabwe.

Traditionally held in February–March, PSL was shifted to April–May this year because of the ICC Champions Trophy being hosted in Pakistan. With the ICC T20 World Cup scheduled for February–March 2026, PCB is exploring alternative dates for PSL 11. Although December–January was proposed, logistical challenges have made an early-season tournament unlikely.

PCB may use the December–January window for the domestic Pentangular Cup featuring star players. Meanwhile, PSL has been turned into a separate company, with Salman Naseer appointed as CEO. However, major structural appointments are still pending.

The league is also undergoing a franchise valuation process after completing ten seasons. A 25% increase in franchise fees is expected. While all teams reaffirmed their ownership last December, Multan Sultans’ owner Ali Tareen has expressed financial concerns and remained silent recently, leaving uncertainty about his continued ownership. The franchise currently has the highest annual fee, exceeding PKR 1 billion.

Plans to add two new teams from the 11th edition were announced but haven’t progressed. Sources revealed that a 10-year title sponsorship contract is also up for renewal. Other commercial aspects—such as ground sponsorship (8–10 categories), broadcast rights (local and international), and live streaming deals—are also under review.

Last year, PCB earned approximately:

* PKR 900 million annually from title sponsorship,
* PKR 1.8 billion from local live streaming rights,
* PKR 6.3 billion from local broadcast,
* USD 4.6 million from international broadcast,
* PKR 2 billion from ground sponsorships (two-year deal),
* USD 2.25 million annually for TV production (two-year deal).

All contracts will be retendered, initiating a lengthy commercial process. If the current format is retained and two new teams are added, the number of matches will increase from 34 to 54, potentially boosting overall deal values by around 30%.

However, it’s still undecided whether new franchises will join under the existing financial model or a revised system. Franchise insiders report that PCB hasn’t yet consulted them regarding new teams, let alone financial frameworks.

While final dates for PSL 11 haven’t been confirmed, April–May 2026 appears to be the most viable window. A joint email has been sent by franchises requesting a meeting of the PSL Governing Council after Eid to discuss major league matters.

Pakistan’s upcoming cricket calendar is packed:

* **November 2025**: Home series vs Sri Lanka (3 ODIs, 3 T20Is),
* **December–January**: Reserved for domestic events,
* **February 2026**: Australia’s T20I tour,
* **March 2026**: ICC T20 World Cup and 3 ODIs vs Australia,
* **Late March–April 2026**: Tour of Bangladesh (2 Tests, 3 ODIs, 3 T20Is),
* **April–May 2026**: Zimbabwe’s scheduled tour (3 ODIs, 3 T20Is).

To accommodate PSL in April–May, the Zimbabwe series may have to be rescheduled. Though earlier fears about clashing with the IPL have reduced after PSL 10, concerns remain for broadcasters and rights holders. A final decision on the PSL 11 window is expected in the coming months.