Multan Sultans Make Big Comeback Ahead of PSL 2026 – Full Details
The cricket world in Pakistan witnessed a surprising development when the Pakistan Super League confirmed a major franchise rebranding ahead of the 2026 season (PSL 11). In one of the most dramatic shifts in the league’s history, the newly formed Sialkot Stallionz has officially been rebranded as the Multan Sultans.
This move marks the return of the Multan-based franchise to the league after a period of uncertainty, reviving one of the most recognizable team identities in the Pakistan Super League.
The rebranding was approved by the Pakistan Cricket Board following a request from the new franchise ownership group, which stepped in to stabilize the team financially and reshape its future.
How the Sialkot Stallionz Became Multan Sultans
The story behind this transformation began shortly after the PSL franchise auction earlier in 2026.
The Sialkot Stallionz franchise encountered unexpected financial difficulties soon after the ownership structure was finalized. The situation created uncertainty about the team’s participation in PSL 11.
To resolve the issue, CD Ventures, a business group led by former Pakistani first-class cricketer Gohar Shah, stepped in to acquire a 98 percent ownership stake in the franchise.
After taking control of the team, Gohar Shah proposed a major strategic change.
Because he belongs to South Punjab, he requested that the franchise name be changed from Sialkot Stallionz to Multan Sultans, bringing the team identity back to the region that previously supported the franchise.
The Pakistan Cricket Board approved the request under special conditions.
Key Conditions for the Rebranding
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Ownership Transfer | CD Ventures acquired 98% stake |
| Franchise Fee | Increased to PKR 2 billion annually |
| License Payment | One-time fee paid to PCB |
| Team Name Change | Approved as Multan Sultans |
This decision restored the Multan identity to the PSL and reintroduced one of the league’s most recognizable brands.
Why the Multan Sultans Brand Matters
The Multan Sultans brand holds significant emotional and sporting value for fans across South Punjab.
When the franchise first joined the Pakistan Super League, it quickly developed a passionate fan base due to strong performances and regional pride.
Multan’s home venue, the Multan Cricket Stadium, became one of the most energetic venues in the league, hosting packed crowds during PSL matches.
Bringing the team back to Multan not only restores regional representation but also strengthens PSL’s connection with cricket fans in southern Punjab.
Preliminary Squad for PSL 2026
Although the final PSL draft introduced several adjustments, the early squad for the revived Multan Sultans includes a mix of international stars and local Pakistani talent.
International Players
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Steven Smith | Captain |
| Ashton Turner | All-rounder |
| Peter Siddle | Bowler |
| Tabraiz Shamsi | Spinner |
| Josh Philippe | Wicketkeeper |
| Delano Potgieter | All-rounder |
Pakistani Players
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Mohammad Nawaz | All-rounder |
| Sahibzada Farhan | Batter |
| Shan Masood | Batter |
| Ahmed Daniyal | Bowler |
| Saad Masood | Batter |
| Mohammad Salman Mirza | Bowler |
| Momin Qamar | Batter |
The squad reflects a balanced combination of experienced international players and emerging Pakistani talent.
PSL 11 Schedule and Opening Match
The 2026 Pakistan Super League season is scheduled to begin on March 26, 2026.
The opening match will be played in Lahore, one of the main venues of the tournament.
Multan Sultans will play their home matches at the Multan Cricket Stadium, restoring the city’s role as a key PSL host location.
Special Arrangements for Sialkot Fans
Because the franchise originally began as Sialkot Stallionz during the 2026 auction process, the management has promised special initiatives for fans from Sialkot.
These initiatives may include:
- organized transport from Sialkot to Multan
- discounted match tickets
- fan engagement events
These steps aim to maintain the support of fans who initially backed the Sialkot-based franchise.
Impact on PSL Branding and Competition
The rebranding of Sialkot Stallionz into Multan Sultans represents one of the most notable franchise transformations in PSL history.
The decision has several implications:
- it restores regional representation for South Punjab
- it stabilizes the franchise financially
- it strengthens the league’s overall brand recognition
The return of the Multan Sultans identity is expected to boost fan interest and ticket sales during PSL 11.
What Fans Can Expect in PSL 2026
With the Multan Sultans returning to the league, the competition in PSL 11 is expected to become even more intense.
Several star players will be competing across teams, and the presence of international cricketers such as Steven Smith and Tabraiz Shamsi adds further excitement.
Fans are particularly interested in seeing how the newly rebuilt Multan Sultans squad performs against other strong teams in the tournament.
Conclusion
The comeback of Multan Sultans ahead of the PSL 2026 season marks one of the most dramatic franchise revivals in the history of the Pakistan Super League.
What began as a financially troubled Sialkot Stallionz franchise has now transformed into a renewed Multan-based team with strong ownership, a competitive squad, and a passionate fan base.
