Former Multan Sultans owner Ali Tareen withdrew from the PSL expansion auction at the last moment. The auction for two new PSL teams is taking place today in Islamabad. As a result, the bidding process will proceed without his participation.
The Pakistan Cricket Board is holding the auction at the Jinnah Convention Centre. Several business groups are competing to secure the new franchises. Consequently, interest in the PSL expansion remains strong despite the withdrawal.
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Meanwhile, Ali Tareen shared his decision through a social media statement. He said the choice was made after careful thought with his family. However, he stressed that the decision was respectful and heartfelt.
After careful consideration, my family and I have decided not to participate in today’s PSL franchise auction.
Our time with Multan Sultans was never just about owning a cricket team. It was about South Punjab. About giving a voice to a region that had been overlooked for too…
— Ali Khan Tareen (@aliktareen) January 8, 2026
Tareen said owning Multan Sultans was more than a business venture. He explained that the team represented South Punjab and its people. Therefore, he said any future return to the PSL would follow the same purpose.
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Following his withdrawal, nine parties are now competing in the auction. The successful bidders can select names from six shortlisted cities. These cities include Rawalpindi, Hyderabad, Faisalabad, Gilgit, Muzaffarabad, and Sialkot.