No room for criticism? PCB bans Multan Sultans after owner Ali Khan Tareen’s PSL comments

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have handed a suspension to PSL franchise Multan Sultans as per reports. The termination notice comes on the back of owner Ali Khan Tareen’s continued criticism of PSL and its growth. PCB have cited contractual breaches in their , marking a serious escalation in conflict between the two parties.

PCB suspend Multan Sultans, hand termination notice over contractual breach

As reported by The Dawn, sources claimed that PCB has also sent a formal notice for termination of the franchise’s contract “after completing all necessary legal procedures”. The reason behind the escalations were the constant scuffles between owner Ali Khan Tareen and the PSL management.

Tareen had accuses PCB of hollow words and not innovating, stagnating the league’s growth. Ahead of the 10th season, the Multan Sultans owner wrote on X, “Fed up with hollow words. PCB had time to plan innovations, but we’re repeating last year. Our biggest brand deserves more. Explain the vision!”

Following the season, he criticised PCB for celebrating the PSL season as a success. Tareen pointed to dropping TV ratings and empty stands and lambasted the organisers for a poor show.

“Applause? You must be kidding. TV ratings down, attendance plummeting, digital engagement slowing – yet we’re celebrating? PCB, wake up. PSL deserves better planning, not self-congratulation. Time to fix these issues before it’s too late,” he wrote.

The Dawn report stated that sources at PCB thought Tareen’s comments damaged the league’s reputation and violated terms of agreement. The notice specifies the clauses breached, information on which is not yet available. It added that a Multan Sultans spokesperson confirmed receiving the notice, but claims it is not for termination.