The Pakistan Super League (PSL) has brought in global professional services giant Ernst & Young (EY) MENA to conduct a full-scale valuation of its assets, signaling a major step toward reshaping the league’s commercial future.
The move comes as franchise agreements approach renewal, with new team entries also on the table. PSL’s management says the review will bring transparency and global credibility to how teams and commercial rights are valued.
A Global Firm to Set Market Benchmarks
EY MENA, chosen after a public tender launched in July, will begin work later this month and deliver its findings in about five weeks. The firm will engage PSL franchises, sponsors, broadcasters, and other stakeholders, carrying out detailed market research and benchmarking in line with international best practices.
The scope of EY’s assessment includes:
- Determining the fair market value of existing franchises
- Evaluating media, streaming, and in-stadium sponsorship rights
- Pricing title sponsorship deals
- Forecasting opportunities for additional teams
The PSL Governing Council has already signed off on the terms of reference for the project.
Setting the Stage for Renewal and Growth
Salman Naseer, PSL’s CEO, called the valuation a “milestone moment” for the league, which has quickly become one of cricket’s most-watched competitions worldwide.
“Engaging an independent global leader like EY ensures transparency and fairness in determining the real value of our franchises and commercial rights,” Naseer said. “This will not only guide renewal negotiations but also give confidence to potential investors as we explore expanding the league.”
Why It Matters
The PSL has grown rapidly since its debut in 2016, drawing international stars and broadcasting to millions of fans. With its current franchise agreements nearing expiration, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is looking to modernize the league’s business model, align franchise fees with global market standards, and potentially add new teams to the competition.
Once EY submits its report, the PCB will use the findings to finalize renewal terms and lay out a roadmap for the league’s next growth phase. Analysts see this as a necessary step for PSL to sustain its trajectory and strengthen its position in a cricket market increasingly dominated by billion-dollar leagues.