We are running out of options: Ali Tareen

ISLAMABAD: Multan Sultans’ owner Ali Tareen has raised the alarm over what he calls a “deeply troubling” pattern of treatment by the Pakistan Super League (PSL) management and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), accusing both of shrinking the space for a fair and amicable resolution.

Speaking to a group of journalists on the sidelines of the Syria–Pakistan AFC Asia Cup qualifying match, Tareen said the franchise has been left frustrated by the lack of meaningful engagement from officials.

He revealed that “not a single sane or workable option” has been offered so far to break the deadlock, adding that the process appears to be moving in the opposite direction.

“Instead of facilitating a settlement, they are making it increasingly difficult for the franchise to resolve matters off the field,” he said.

Tareen warned that if the situation continues without any viable or fair solution, Multan Sultans will be “left with no alternative but to approach the court to seek justice.”

Tareen said the PSL’s operational model has become increasingly lopsided, with the board earning substantial revenues while franchises continue to struggle financially. “It is not sustainable that the board makes money while franchises face difficulties,” he said, adding that inflated franchise valuations will only worsen the situation. “If teams are sold at very high prices, they simply cannot operate financially. And if franchises start collapsing, it will ultimately hurt the PSL.”

Tareen revealed that despite writing a detailed letter to PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi outlining his concerns, he has not received a response. The lack of communication, he warned, may leave him with no option but to pursue legal action.