In a revealing development, Karachi Kings’ owner Salman Iqbal has dispelled growing rumors about the financial struggles of the six Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchises.
Speaking on ARY’s very own podcast, Salman Iqbal issued the update amid a growing debate about the financial health of PSL teams and the broader model of the league. A key voice in this discussion, he emphasized that if teams are still not generating profits in the current environment, the problem likely lies with their own operational models rather than the league itself.
“Karachi and Lahore are in profit. If PSL teams aren’t generating profits, it means they’re doing something wrong,” Salman Iqbal said.
The remarks come in response to recent public criticism of the PSL model, including comments by Multan Sultans’ owner Ali Tareen, who questioned the financial sustainability of the tournament. Tareen’s remark led to a brief media back-and-forth between the two owners.
“I don’t have a personal grudge against Ali Tareen, but timing is important,” the official continued. “Criticizing the PSL just before the league starts can deter advertisers and impact their budgets. Similarly, if I speak against a popular show like Jeeto Pakistan, who would sponsor me?”
The general public has long held the belief that PSL owners have failed to even recoup the franchise fees they paid for the team during the league’s 10-year run. Given that Lahore and Karachi are two significant markets, their profitability may be related to their locality rather than an innovative approach. That still leaves Quetta, Multan, Peshawar, and Islamabad as outsiders who cannot match their commercial firepower.
Karachi Kings and Lahore Qalandars, two of the most iconic franchises in the PSL, have had their share of struggles, both on and off the field. However, after years of building loyal fanbases, enhancing their commercial strategies, and tapping into better marketing practices, both sides are now reportedly operating in the black. This positive development is seen as a blueprint for other franchises.
While the PSL model has its challenges, many, including Salman Iqbal, argue that sound management, consistent branding, and smarter business decisions are the keys to turning fortunes around.
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