The PCB has decided to hold the PSL in April due to the Champions Trophy, coinciding with the financially lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL), which will already be underway.
Attractive financial incentives in India have led numerous globally renowned players to sign contracts with the IPL. Consequently, apart from a few big names, most players will be unavailable for the PSL, set to begin on April 7 next year. Even top players from Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh are expected to participate in India’s tournament, lured by its monetary appeal.
A significant difference between the leagues in Pakistan and India lies in media rights. The IPL’s broadcasting rights for 2022-2027 were sold for $6.2 billion (PKR 1.72 trillion). Moreover, partnerships with billionaire Indian businessmen, major corporate houses, and Bollywood stars have elevated IPL’s brand value to $10.7 billion (PKR 2.975 trillion).
In comparison, the PSL has also seen growth in media rights, selling its 2024-2025 broadcasting deal for PKR 6.3 billion. However, despite progress in media rights, the PSL’s estimated brand value is around $330 million (PKR 91.77 billion).
