The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to withhold broadcast and digital media rights for the 11th season of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) in the Indian market, as tensions surrounding the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 continue to escalate between the PCB and the International Cricket Council (ICC).
While the Indian market has been excluded, the PCB has successfully concluded the sale of international media rights for PSL 2026. The tournament is scheduled to begin on March 26, immediately after the conclusion of the T20 World Cup, and will run until May 3. The players’ auction is slated for February 11.
Global Rights Deal Finalised
Digital media company Walee Technologies emerged as the highest bidder after exceeding the PCB’s reserve price and has been awarded the global broadcast and digital rights for PSL 11, excluding India. The agreement has been finalised on a one-year deal.
According to the PCB, the latest deal represents a 149% increase in media rights value compared to the previous cycle, highlighting the league’s expanding international reach and commercial growth.
India Market Remains Unassigned
In the previous season, FanCode and Sony Sports Network held the Indian broadcast rights for the PSL. However, both platforms suspended coverage midway through the tournament and removed PSL-related content following the Pakistan-linked Pahalgam terror attack in April, which significantly impacted viewership and commercial commitments.
The PCB has not announced a timeline for reopening the Indian media rights tender for PSL 11.
PSL Officials React
Reacting to the development, PSL Chief Executive Officer Salman Naseer expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the international media rights deal.
“We are extremely pleased with the result, which has delivered a remarkable 149% increase over the last cycle for the same regions,” Naseer said.
“The sustained rise in international media rights reflects the combined efforts of franchises, players, and partners who have helped establish the PSL as a globally recognised cricketing brand.”
Walee Technologies CEO Muhammad Ahsan Tahir also welcomed the agreement, calling it a milestone for Pakistan’s digital ecosystem.
“This is a win for everyone who believes in ‘Made in Pakistan’ technology. This is just the beginning of our PSL journey, and we have ambitious plans for the future,” Tahir said.
Background: T20 World Cup Impasse
The decision comes amid an ongoing standoff between the PCB and the ICC over participation and scheduling issues related to the T20 World Cup, with reports suggesting potential legal and commercial ramifications if fixtures involving India and Pakistan are not fulfilled.
