Franchises concerned as preparations lag behind schedule for PSL 9

The ninth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) will commence in Lahore from February 17, 2024.

Despite only two weeks remaining until the start, preparations are progressing at a very slow pace, causing concern among franchises. The instability in the PCB is cited as the reason, with the ticket sales plan yet to be revealed. 

There is a dispute whether Ali Zafar will sing the anthem or not. Finalization of matters related to the opening ceremony are pending, however broadcasting deals have been recently finalized. No advertising campaign has been launched.

On the other hand it is getting difficult for the franchises to secure
sponsorship deals. So far, no one has unveiled jersey. Previously, most teams relied on surrogate advertising, but government restrictions have limited options.

Until now, it has not been decided whether director PSL Sohaib Sheikh, League Commissioner Naila Bhatti, or COO Salman Naseer, who will be the incharge of PSL 9. 

Sources have revealed that under the supervision of Zaka Ashraf, some PCB officials deliberately slowed down the processes. Most of the officials thought that Najam Sethi would again become chairman but it did not happen. Prime Minister nominated Mohsin Naqvi to the governing board. 

On February 6, the interim chairman and election commissioner Shah Khawar will oversee the selection of the new head who is likely to be Mohsin Naqvi. Shah Khawar and Salman Nasir left for Bali, Indonesia for the ACC meeting, both will come to the office on Friday. 

There is a possibility of speeding up work after handling the responsibilities to the elected chairman. Sources have said that this time the inaugural ceremony will be held on a small scale, its budget has been set at 20 crore rupees, last year this amount was 33 crore. The possibility of anthem being sung by Ali Zafar is higher but due to harassment cases in the past now only one franchise Multan Sultans is opposing this. As soon as this issue is resolved, anthem will be released. Moreover, work is also in process regarding ticketing. 

On the other hand, more than one franchise officials confessed upon contacting that the affairs of the PSL 9 are extremely slow. They said that this time, bigger international players will not participate in the league. No hype could be created so far. However, in the past, national stars made the league successful, and they hope the same will happen this time as well. They said that once the tournament starts, everything will start running automatically under the system. However, the PCB should be careful. This is our biggest tournament. If any shortcomings are left, other leagues will surpass us.