Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met representatives of the firms that won the bidding for two new teams in the Pakistan Super League, congratulating them on their successful bids and calling the expansion a major boost for Pakistan cricket.

During the meeting, the prime minister congratulated the representatives of the newly awarded Sialkot and Hyderabad franchises and extended his best wishes for their participation in the league. He said the addition of two new teams would increase the popularity and competitiveness of the PSL.

He described the new franchises as a “breath of fresh air” for the tournament. He also paid tribute to PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and the Pakistan Cricket Board management for conducting a successful and transparent bidding process.

He noted that the bidding was broadcast live on television, calling it clear proof of transparency and good governance in Pakistan’s sports administration.

Boost to grassroots cricket, new talent

The prime minister said the inclusion of Sialkot and Hyderabad teams would help promote cricket at the grassroots level across the country. He added that expanding the league would create more opportunities for young players and support the emergence of new talent.

Also Read: PSL auction: Two new teams auctioned for Rs3.6bn

According to him, a broader PSL structure strengthens the national cricket pipeline.

Shehbaz welcomed the strong interest shown by international firms in bidding for the new teams. He said the process has encouraged foreign investment in Pakistan and further enhanced the PSL’s global profile.

He also highlighted the role of overseas Pakistanis, noting that they have consistently contributed to the country’s development, including in sports and investment.

Federal ministers attend meeting

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar were also present at the meeting.

The prime minister expressed confidence that the expansion of the PSL would strengthen Pakistan’s image internationally and take the league to new heights.

On Thursday, the auction process for two new Pakistan Super League (PSL) teams concluded. The seventh franchise was purchased by FKS Group for Rs1.75 billion, while the eighth franchise was acquired by OZ Developers for a record Rs1.85 billion.

The recently auctioned teams of the PSL have officially been named Hyderabad and Sialkot. The FKS picked Hyderabad after buying the franchise at whopping Rs1.75 billion, while OZ Developers picked Sialkot from the assigned names.