KARACHI – The Pakistan Super League could return to an earlier calendar slot next year, with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and owners of the eight franchises considering January-February 2027 for the 12th edition of the competition. The proposal was discussed at the PSL Governing Council meeting in London on September 1, with media rights holder Walee Technologies reportedly advocating an earlier window because of concerns over advertising returns during the current April-May period. Franchise owners, however, are seeking assurances that their share of central broadcast revenue will remain protected if the tournament is shifted. Under the existing arrangement, the eight teams receive 95 per cent of broadcast revenue from the central pool.
The PSL was staged in February-March from 2016 through 2024, but the tournament moved to April-May for the last two seasons because of the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025 and the T20 World Cup in 2026. The change resulted in the PSL overlapping with the Indian Premier League, although it also helped ensure greater availability of overseas players.
A January-February window could create a different challenge, with the PSL competing for international players with South Africa’s SA20 and Australia’s Big Bash League. Winter weather is another concern, particularly in Punjab, where Lahore, Multan and Rawalpindi can experience cold temperatures and dense fog that may disrupt matches and travel. One proposal under consideration is to begin the tournament in Karachi, where winter conditions are relatively moderate, before moving to Punjab and Peshawar later in the competition. The PCB currently has an international window from mid-November through March, although Pakistan are scheduled to host Sri Lanka and England before facing New Zealand in March.
The Governing Council has also discussed expanding the PSL’s commercial footprint through a possible mid-year tournament and exploring opportunities in esports. Both ideas could provide additional revenue streams and keep the league visible beyond its main season. However, no final decision has been made on the January switch or additional events. Further consultations between the PCB, franchises and other stakeholders are expected before the PSL 12 schedule is formally approved.
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