In a stunning development, the Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise, Multan Sultans, has been sold for a record-breaking Rs2.45 billion to Walee Technologies, who plan to rename the team to Rawalpindi. This move has sent shockwaves through the cricket world and left fans divided.
The auction, held in Lahore, saw intense bidding for the franchise, with the winning bid covering the annual fee for the next decade. The new owner, Ahsan Tahir, CEO of Walee Technologies, surprised everyone with the announcement of the name change, leaving fans wondering about the fate of the beloved Multan Sultans brand.
But here's where it gets controversial. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, while congratulating the new owners, expressed his gratitude to former chairman Najam Sethi for his vision in establishing the franchise. Sethi, visibly emotional, shared his joy and highlighted the strong friendship with Naqvi. However, he also hinted at potential changes, stating that Naqvi would bring 'good news beyond PSL' in the coming days.
The future of the Multan Sultans brand is now uncertain. Naqvi acknowledged the sentimental value of the name but also the new owner's right to rebrand. The franchise, founded in 2017, has a rich history, including a league victory in 2021. Yet, recent events left the team ownerless after the PCB's decision not to renew Ali Khan Tareen's ownership. The PCB's subsequent takeover and auction process have now led to this unexpected outcome.
The auction process began in January, with the technical evaluation concluding in February. When questioned about the opening bid, Naqvi revealed it was based on the second-highest bid for the Sialkot team, which sold for Rs1.85 billion. Meanwhile, the PCB chairman addressed the ongoing discussions with the ICC delegation regarding Pakistan's boycott of the T20 World Cup match against India, citing Bangladesh's perspective and the sensitive nature of the situation.
Walee Technologies, a global company with expertise in media, finance, and technology, has also acquired PSL livestreaming rights. As the new owners of the franchise, they have the power to reshape its identity. But will the fans embrace the change, or will the beloved Multan Sultans legacy be lost in the process? The cricket community awaits with bated breath as this story unfolds.
