Ali Khan Tareen, the outspoken owner of the Multan Sultans franchise, has officially exited the Pakistan Super League (PSL), ending his protracted dispute with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and league authorities. In a heartfelt message to fans, Tareen wrote, “I would rather lose this team while standing on my feet than run it from my knees. So, this is goodbye.”

Tareen, in his mid-30s, had been at odds with the PCB and PSL management for years, often publicly criticizing their policies. The conflict escalated when the PCB issued a show-cause notice demanding a public apology, which Tareen famously tore up in defiance. Despite being a compliant franchise, Tareen was not provided the Ernst & Young valuation report or a renewal offer, which he claims breached contractual obligations.

“Since the franchise agreement had neither been suspended nor terminated, Multan Sultans was a compliant franchise. By not sharing EY reports as well as a fresh offer letter, the PCB was in breach of contract,” a source stated.

Tareen urged fans to continue supporting the team, emphasizing that the Sultans belong not only to him but also to the people of South Punjab. “Please know that this team has always been much more than its owner. So whoever takes control of the Sultans next, please keep supporting them with the same passion. You can count on me to be in the stands supporting them too,” he added.

Under Tareen’s ownership, acquired from the UAE-based Schon Group in 2018 for $6.3 million per year, Multan Sultans became the most expensive franchise in the PSL. Over seven years, Tareen reportedly invested PKR 7.2 billion in the league, receiving only PKR 1.7 billion in return. The franchise won the 2021 title and reached the finals in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

The PCB is now preparing to expand the PSL to eight teams and will hold an auction in the first week of January to welcome three new franchise owners.