The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has sent a legal notice to Multan Sultans co-owner Ali Khan Tareen.
The notice demands a public apology for his recent critical comments about the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Without it, the franchise risks termination and a lifetime blacklist for Tareen from owning any cricket team.
Tareen’s video statement on social media X questioned the PSL’s growth and planning. For example, he asked how PSL 10 would be “bigger and better” with the same teams and games. He also criticised the league’s anthem and draft venue choices. These remarks, in the PCB’s view, breach the 10-year franchise contract.
The PSL Management has sent me a notice threatening to cancel Multan Sultans unless I offer them a public apology. Hazir Saeen. pic.twitter.com/yHWCcClXaD
— Ali Khan Tareen (@aliktareen) October 23, 2025
Multan Sultans responded with a strong statement. They called Tareen’s words “constructive criticism” made in the PSL’s best interest. The franchise highlighted his investments. Tareen has spent over PKR 7 billion on academies and talent development, despite personal losses.
The team accused the PCB of pettiness. They said silencing feedback harms the league’s growth. “Great leagues thrive on questions and accountability,” the statement noted. A spokesperson clarified that the notice is not yet a termination but threatens serious action.
Read: Ali Tareen Slams PCB Over PSL 2025’s Declining Fan Interest
Tareen addressed the issue in a video on X (formerly Twitter). He expressed unhappiness with the PSL management’s “mediocre mindset.” This came hours after the notice surfaced. His comments have sparked debate among fans and experts about free speech in sports.
Impact on PSL Future and Cricket Governance
This controversy could shake the PSL ahead of its 11th season. With two new teams joining, tensions over rebidding and transparency add fuel. Tareen’s blacklist threat raises questions about how criticism is handled in Pakistani cricket.