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The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is set for a major expansion, with the United States of America (USA) emerging as a potential new market. According to reports, two American investors have expressed interest in purchasing two new teams for the PSL, marking a significant step toward globalizing Pakistan’s premier T20 franchise league.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is keen on establishing PSL as the second-most prominent franchise-based cricket league after the Indian Premier League (IPL). The upcoming PSL 2025 season is tentatively scheduled from April 7 to May 20, 2025, which overlaps with IPL 2025.
The PCB had to adjust the tournament’s schedule due to Pakistan hosting the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 from February 19 to March 9. The ICC event will see India’s matches being played in Dubai, further delaying PSL’s traditional February-March window.
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Pakistan Eyes USA Cricket Market
Renowned sports journalist Saleem Khaliq revealed that top PCB officials have been exploring opportunities in the USA cricket market. Their discussions include adding two new teams to the PSL and even organizing future matches in the USA.
“Pakistan has begun efforts to access the USA cricket market, with top officials exploring options during their visit to include two new teams in the PSL and organize matches in the future. Two American individuals are interested in purchasing teams,” Saleem Khaliq wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
This potential expansion aligns with the rising popularity of cricket in the USA, especially after the success of Major League Cricket (MLC) and the 2024 T20 World Cup scheduled to be co-hosted by the USA and the West Indies.
Also Check: Draft vs. Auction: What Is the Difference Between PSL and IPL’s Player Signing System?
England Players Sign PSL Contracts Despite ECB’s NOC Policy
Despite the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) new No Objection Certificate (NOC) policy, several English cricketers have signed contracts with PSL teams. The ECB’s recent directive allows players to feature only in the IPL while restricting participation in overseas leagues that clash with the English summer.
However, these English players are still awaiting final clearance from the ECB regarding their participation in PSL 2025. This situation adds an interesting dimension to player availability for the tournament.
PCB Introduces USD 100,000 Bonus for Star Players
To attract top international talent, the Pakistan Cricket Board has announced a special bonus of USD 100,000 for six high-profile foreign players in PSL 2025. This initiative is part of a USD 1 million incentive fund, designed to enhance the league’s global reputation and competitiveness.
Key Players Benefiting from the PSL Bonus
- David Warner (Australia) – Signed a contract worth USD 300,000
- Kane Williamson (New Zealand) – Among the top earners in PSL 2025
This bonus will be paid directly by the PCB from the fund, reducing the financial burden on PSL franchises. The incentive pool was created after PSL’s central broadcast revenue crossed 3 billion rupees. Since last year’s balance remained unused, it has now been increased to USD 1 million for PSL 2025.
PSL’s Global Expansion Strategy
With an eye on competing with the IPL and other global T20 leagues, the PSL is making bold moves to expand its presence internationally. The potential addition of two USA-based teams, lucrative financial incentives, and a strong foreign player pool signal PSL’s ambition to become a powerhouse in franchise cricket.
As the Pakistan Super League enters its 10th edition in 2025, the inclusion of new teams and potential matches in the USA could mark the beginning of a new era for Pakistan’s premier T20 tournament.
