LAHORE ( The COW News Digital) Ali Tareen, owner of Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Multan Sultans, has publicly rejected a legal notice issued by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), escalating tensions between the franchise and the league’s governing body.
In a video message shared on social media, Tareen revealed that the PCB sent him a legal notice demanding a retraction of critical statements and an apology, while also threatening termination of the franchise agreement and blacklisting of the owners. He emphatically tore up the notice, asserting that he would not remain silent in the face of intimidation.
“If you think I will stay quiet because of threats, you are mistaken,” Tareen said in the video. He clarified that while he loves the PSL and recognizes it as a league for all of Pakistan, he has been left with no communication channels to resolve the issues he raised. “Not a single call or email has been made to discuss my concerns,” he said.
Tareen added that he has sought to highlight the need for capable personnel in the PSL management and raised concerns about the draft process, training facilities, and the league’s opening ceremony. He offered an ambiguous apology, stating, “I apologize if my comments were misunderstood, but I only want the league to improve with the inclusion of qualified people.”
According to sources, the PCB issued the notice citing violations of the 10-year franchise agreement and allegations that the Multan Sultans’ management conducted a campaign that could damage the PSL’s reputation. The notice warned that failure to provide a satisfactory response could lead to termination of the franchise agreement and blacklisting of the owners.
Reports suggest that the franchise had begun its media campaigns before PSL 10, including interviews and podcasts in which critical remarks about the league were made. The PCB claims these actions violated the terms of the agreement and tarnished the league’s image.
Tareen’s strong public reaction reflects ongoing friction between franchise owners and league management over operational and governance issues. Analysts say this standoff could complicate PSL’s upcoming season if a mutually acceptable resolution is not reached soon.
While Tareen reaffirmed his commitment to the PSL, he stressed that meaningful dialogue and management reforms are necessary to protect the league’s reputation and future growth.
