The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly refused to increase Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchises’ share in income. This gives rise to a number of questions with the most important one being ‘how does it affect the future of PSL?’
The league is all set to begin from February 14, and we have already seen the owners of the most expensive side —Multan Sultans — giving up the franchise, which is consequently owned by the board itself. Bearing that in mind, the demand from franchises seems quite legitimate. However, the timing for such a demand doesn’t make any sense. They should have asked the PCB, for the same, after the conclusion of season three. As at this stage, they should be debating for the betterment and future of the league with special emphasis on bringing it back to Pakistan.
It is however pertinent to note here, in the current setup, the board and the franchises share 50 per cent each from sponsorship and other modes of income. However, considering that it is the franchises that have invested a huge amount than the board the PCB’s 50 per cent share seems too much. This share hence should be revised on priority basis.
While PCB Chairman Ehsan Mani has heard the concerns of franchise owners and they will be addressed appropriately, the franchises refusal to carry out proper audit is concerning. Without presenting the audit report, they are demanding to increase their share on basis of financial losses. They should instead have presented the report first in order to make their case strong.
Having said, it is important to remember that the PSL is Pakistan’s brand that has revived cricket in the country and the PCB must take all measures to protect it and help it flourish.
Published in The Express Tribune, November 26th, 2018.
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