Tower Sports has acquired satellite rights for ICC cricket events in Pakistan until the end of 2025 [Update at Post#79]

[The Bald Eagle]

PM Kakar gives assent to sell PSL 9 media rights

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has received permission from Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, who is also the PCB's patron-in-chief, to sell the media rights for the Pakistan Super League Season 9.

The PCB had requested this permission recently, citing the difficulties that would arise from delaying the award of the rights. A source from the Ministry for Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC) said, "The prime minister understood the urgency of the situation and agreed to let the PCB sell the media rights for the PSL 9."

The PSL 9 was scheduled to begin on February 8, the same day as the general elections in the country. The PCB has not yet confirmed the new dates for the ninth season, but it is believed that the PSL 2024 could start on either February 13 or February 17.

On December 20, 2023, the ministry had sent a letter to the PCB, prohibiting the board from making any decisions that involved financial or contractual matters without the patron's approval.

The letter said, "The prime minister/patron instructed the PCB that only the prime minister/Patron PCB can approve any decisions that have financial or contractual implications. It is important to note that Article 5(3) of PCB Constitution, 2014 gives the Patron the authority to issue general policy directions from time to time and the Board has to follow them. Any appointments or award of rights or contracts of any kind will be against the Patron PCB's directions and also be null and void from the start, as the Management Committee has only been allowed to handle the day to day affairs of PCB with the main duty of finalizing the composition of PCB's BoG and conducting the elections of Chairman, PCB as soon as possible. Despite repeated attempts, no information/report has been received so far."

The PCB then sent another request to the patron-in-chief, asking for permission to sell the rights as the delay could cause problems. The PM has given the green light to sell the media rights for the PSL 9.

 

[MenInG]

PSL media rights see a massive increase

PSL live-streaming rights witnessed a 113 per cent increase; HBL PSL broadcast rights see 45 per cent increase

Pakistan Super League had yet another historic day on Tuesday, when its live-streaming and broadcast rights saw an increase of 113 and 45 per cent for the 2024 and 2025 editions, respectively.

ARY Communications (Pvt) Limited (ARY) submitted the highest bid, pursuant to a public tender process, to broadcast HBL Pakistan Super League 2024 and 2025 in Pakistan, which sees a whopping increase of 45 per cent from the value for the last two years.

A public, transparent, and merit-based tender process was followed for awarding the Pakistan region PSL TV Broadcast media rights for 2024-2025.

Bids were received from Independent Media Corporation Pvt. Ltd (IMC – the parent company of GEO Entertainment Television Pvt Ltd), ARY Communications (Pvt) Limited (ARY), Pakistan Television Corporation Limited (PTVC) and Tower Sports (Ten Sports).

Meanwhile, Walee Technologies submitted the highest bid, pursuant to a public tender process, to live-stream HBL Pakistan Super League 2024 and 2025 in Pakistan, which sees a huge increase of 113 per cent from the value for the last two years.

The PCB received bids from five parties - Consortium of ARY Communications (ARY, Myco, Daraz and Tamasha), Walee Technologies, TransGroup FZE, Independent Media Corporation Pvt. Ltd (IMC – the parent company of GEO Entertainment Television Pvt Ltd) and Tower Sports (Ten Sports).

The PCB Bid Committee has recommended the highest bids submitted by ARY and Walee Technologies to the competent authority for approval.

Chairman PCB Management Committee Zaka Ashraf: “I want to congratulate ARY, Walee Technologies, the Pakistan Cricket Board, its management committee and the franchises on this historic moment. HBL PSL is a huge brand and it has a massive fan following.

“It is an unprecedented moment as the prices for both of these rights are unmatched. This is a testament to the growth of the HBL PSL brand and we are all waiting for HBL PSL 9 to begin now.”

ARY Digital Founder and CEO, Salman Iqbal: “I am delighted that ARY has once again come out as the highest financial bidder for HBL Pakistan Super League and that fans will be able to watch HBL PSL again on A Sports for the next two seasons.

“My team and I have always prioritised Pakistan and this bid process is another indication of the same where we have gone almost 50 per cent above the value we bid successfully in the previous cycle.

“Together with the Pakistan Cricket Board, ARY will work to further amplify the PSL brand in the next two seasons.”

Walee Technologies CEO and co-founder, Ahsan Tahir: “We are honoured to have won the bid for HBL PSL ninth and tenth editions live-streaming media rights. Walee Technologies looks forward to taking the HBL PSL digital experience to the next level.

“We are in a position to make an investment of this magnitude because patriotic data-literate advertisers recognise that we are the only platform with the highest trust media touchpoints that attracts Gen Z and Gen Alpha customer segments.”

 

[Rana]

@MenInG who is broadcasting now in UK?

Sky sports had a 3 year agreement, I believe that is up now

 

[MenInG]

@MenInG who is broadcasting now in UK?

Sky sports had a 3 year agreement, I believe that is up now

Not clear at all.

Lots of rumours

 

[Rana]

Not clear at all.

Lots of rumours

England have a Test tour later on this year so it would be a good swoop for Sky and BT to get the rights for 2 years (including CT)

 

[Major]

This is great news. I just hope this means that A sports brings back the pavilion for PSL than. Love that show

 

[Rana]

This is great news. I just hope this means that A sports brings back the pavilion for PSL than. Love that show

It’s a great show but Misbah brings down the value

 

[shamaan]

Is that good money comapared to other leagues.

 

[topspin]

It’s a great show but Misbah brings down the value

Massively. Luckily we are not exposed to his inept reading of the game on British channels.

 

[shariqnoor]

This is great news. I just hope this means that A sports brings back the pavilion for PSL than. Love that show

Wasim is absolutely cringe on that show. Cannot take criticism. Thinks he knows everything. Reminisces constantly about his time. Wasim should be replaced with Bazid. But then again, Wasim is apparently the President of the channel so he can't drop himself. Also, Pavilion is fine for World Cups. Don't want that show 5 months of the year every year.

 

[Major]

Wasim is absolutely cringe on that show. Cannot take criticism. Thinks he knows everything. Reminisces constantly about his time. Wasim should be replaced with Bazid. But then again, Wasim is apparently the President of the channel so he can't drop himself. Also, Pavilion is fine for World Cups. Don't want that show 5 months of the year every year.

Naa, if you have 4 people who are similar than the show becomes boring.

The cricket analysis is mainly done by Misbah and 4th junior guy. If they are to add Bazid Khan than he should be in place of Malik.

Fans like to listen to nostalgic conversation, and when ever Akram has anything to share about his playing days its great to hear. But yes, he sometimes starts fuming over petty things, but the best thing is the host than makes fun of him for it.

 

[Major]

Is that good money comapared to other leagues.

great money compared to the economic situation of the country

 

[Rana]

Wasim should be replaced with Bazid

Who’s going to tune it to listen to Misbah and Bazid bore the life out of them?

 

[gazza619]

Is that good money comapared to other leagues.

The more money, the higher the corruption I am afraid. Big chunks goes into dirty people’s pocket.

 

[Savak]

PKR 6.3 million works around to $22-23 million. Is this for one year or two years?

Last tv deal was for $24 million for 2 years.

$22-23 million for one year is decent progress but $22-23 million for 2 plus years means no progress or growth has occurred in the PSL in fact the PSL has even regressed in this case.

 

[Savak]

Apparently the deal is for 2 years and is equivalent to the prior year. No progress has been made in the PSL. If the league has reached its ceiling, might as well close it because the competitors i.e. BBL, ILT20, SA T20 are making tremendous progress.

 

[Major]

PKR 6.3 million works around to $22-23 million. Is this for one year or two years?

Last tv deal was for $24 million for 2 years.

$22-23 million for one year is decent progress but $22-23 million for 2 plus years means no progress or growth has occurred in the PSL in fact the PSL has even regressed in this case.

I think its two years.

Good input, but you meant billion there not million.

The one issue in this case is that the PKR to dollar value and plus because surrogate companies sponsor, the advertising money for broadcaster and franchises has reduced.

 

[DeadlyVenom]

It is a 45% increase in PKR terms but nothing in USD from the previous deal.

It really depends on which way you would like to spin it.

The reserve price of 7bn PKR wasn't met.

 

[shariqnoor]

Naa, if you have 4 people who are similar than the show becomes boring.

The cricket analysis is mainly done by Misbah and 4th junior guy. If they are to add Bazid Khan than he should be in place of Malik.

Fans like to listen to nostalgic conversation, and when ever Akram has anything to share about his playing days its great to hear. But yes, he sometimes starts fuming over petty things, but the best thing is the host than makes fun of him for it.

The one person I'd really like to see on the panel is Abdul Rehman. The guy has coached his teams to multiple tournament victories in the domestic so I would love to hear his insights into the game. Apparently, he also has a Masters in International Relations. But I think the next person on the panel might be Azhar Ali.

 

[gazza619]

I am happy with Sky. You get a gazillion free channels, including many asian channels.

Previously you were almost guaranteed to see 95% of Pakistan cricket matches with sky sports.

now half games come on TNT, and I am fed up with the extra subscriptions.

 

[Savak]

It is a 45% increase in PKR terms but nothing in USD from the previous deal.

It really depends on which way you would like to spin it.

The reserve price of 7bn PKR wasn't met.

Thats a failure on the PCB's part and the Pakistani markets, economy. If the league cannot grow beyond a certain point then you might as well shut it because it is now embarrassing for Pakistan Cricket that other leagues like Big Bash, SA T20, ILT20 have grown whereas the PSL has badly stagnated, there is no point in holding a league just for the sake of it. At this rate, this league is going in BPL's direction, i guarantee you if there is no growth commercially in the league then you can forget about interested franchise owners going forward.

 

[cricketjoshila]

Poor response from the broadcasters.

PSL is now competing with well-funded and managed leagues like SA20 and ILT20. They pay players more and get better foreign players.

Infact in terms of presentation SA20 is perhaps the best in the world.

PSL needs to be funded properly.

The salary cap needs to be as much as SA20 if not ILT20. PCB needs to let go off some of their franchisee fees to let the teams spend more on players.

Lets be honest here, 12mn a year in broadcast revenues leaves hardly anything with franchisees after all the costs.

And one thing is clear, these franchisees aren't deep pocketed enough to keep taking losses and fund the team. Or they simply are not interested.

I hear PCB will reauction the franchisees after the current agreement is over. They must put in a clause that other than the franchisee fee, a team owner must spend X amount on the team.

 

[Savak]

Poor response from the broadcasters.

PSL is now competing with well-funded and managed leagues like SA20 and ILT20. They pay players more and get better foreign players.

Infact in terms of presentation SA20 is perhaps the best in the world.

PSL needs to be funded properly.

The salary cap needs to be as much as SA20 if not ILT20. PCB needs to let go off some of their franchisee fees to let the teams spend more on players.

Lets be honest here, 12mn a year in broadcast revenues leaves hardly anything with franchisees after all the costs.

And one thing is clear, these franchisees aren't deep pocketed enough to keep taking losses and fund the team. Or they simply are not interested.

I hear PCB will reauction the franchisees after the current agreement is over. They must put in a clause that other than the franchisee fee, a team owner must spend X amount on the team.

What's in it for the PCB if they reduce their franchise fees? How many compromises and concessions can they make for the franchises?

At some point a venture has to make business, commercial sense, if it doesn't then you have to cut your losses and move on.

 

[Seam Specialist]

Thats a failure on the PCB's part and the Pakistani markets, economy. If the league cannot grow beyond a certain point then you might as well shut it because it is now embarrassing for Pakistan Cricket that other leagues like Big Bash, SA T20, ILT20 have grown whereas the PSL has badly stagnated, there is no point in holding a league just for the sake of it. At this rate, this league is going in BPL's direction, i guarantee you if there is no growth commercially in the league then you can forget about interested franchise owners going forward.

Comparing PSL to SA T20 and ILT20 which are brand new T20 leagues is misleading. PSL could never compete with Indian money coming into these new leagues and these leagues were always going to show great growth in the short term compared to a 9 year old league where the host country is going through an economic crises. The question for SAT20 and ILT20 is how economically viable they are in the long term, with low interest overseas and almost zero interest locally for the ILT20, I would be surprised if ILT20 is even operating in the next 10 years.

Also, Big Bash is not a growing league, arguably, it is the worst league in the world at the moment. Diwendling stadium attendance, low ratings in Australia, almost no foreign players and disputes with the broadcast rights holders has marred it as a failing league. If you think this PSL deal is bad, have you not seen the new Cricket Australia rights that have just sold, a brief breakdown is below:

Broadcast rights for 6 years from 2018 - 2024 = AUD$1.182 Billion = USD$950 Million or USD$158 Million per year
Broadcast rights for 7 years from 2024 - 2031 = AUD$1.512 Billion = USD$1.01 Billion(AUD has devalued) or USD$145 Million per year.

That's a loss of USD$13 Million per year and with the addition that they had to decrease the Big Bash because no one was watching and their best players don't even play the Big Bash. Big Bash is unfortunately dying a slow death and Cricket Australia has tried everything, from weird power play rules and x factor player rules but interest in the league is dwindling.

On the other hand, PSL hasn't really peaked yet, with the country's economic woes bringing it down but with a potential of additional teams and if the security situation of the country getting better in the next few years, your looking at a 8 team league with all teams having home and away matches in there respective cities. The PSL is far from being a stagnating league, it's the PCBs biggest asset.

 

[BouncerGuy]

A-sports can do well here. PTV is still working like some 90s channel having poor graphics and lots of controversies surrounding it as well. I think A-sports will do a good job as a new comer. Let's see.

 

[cricketjoshila]

What's in it for the PCB if they reduce their franchise fees? How many compromises and concessions can they make for the franchises?

At some point a venture has to make business, commercial sense, if it doesn't then you have to cut your losses and move on.

PCB has failed to make PSL a financially robust product. So they can't claim their entire franchisee fee as they have been deficient in providing services.

ILT20 and SA20 have higher salary cap than PSL. How?

PSL broadcast revenues show no signs of breaking out. Overhead costs ofcourse have increased for teams.

How is that PCB can suffer no financial consequences?

 

[BouncerGuy]

As per a media report:

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) broadcasting rights have been sold for an impressive 6.3 billion rupees, showing a substantial growth of 2 billion rupees from the last agreement. A private TV channel triumphed in this competitive bidding process, outbidding three other competitors. The channel that initially offered the highest bid further escalated its offer by one billion rupees in the subsequent round, thereby clinching the broadcasting rights for the forthcoming two years.

This deal has received the green light from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), and it has been decided that 95% of the earnings will be allocated to the PSL franchises. This means that the franchises are set to receive over 3 billion rupees on an annual basis. Furthermore, digital rights were separately procured for 1.85 billion rupees.

The PCB had set a condition that only companies owning their sports channels or those who had procured rights from another channel were eligible to participate in the bidding process. The reserve price for the prior contract was 3.7 billion rupees, and the rights were eventually purchased for 4.3 billion rupees for a span of two years. Interestingly, the broadcasting rights have been secured by the same entity once again.

Prior to the bidding process, the PCB engaged the international company ‘Colganbauer’ to evaluate the media rights of PSL. The valuation estimated a value of 6 billion rupees.​

 

[MenInG]

Huge jump in media rights amounts - good news for the league and it's franchises.

 

[Markhor]

Were the PSL rights bundled with the home international rights ?

Haven't heard anything about the international rights since the PTV revenue sharing agreement flopped.

 

[Savak]

PCB has failed to make PSL a financially robust product. So they can't claim their entire franchisee fee as they have been deficient in providing services.

ILT20 and SA20 have higher salary cap than PSL. How?

PSL broadcast revenues show no signs of breaking out. Overhead costs ofcourse have increased for teams.

How is that PCB can suffer no financial consequences?

PCB could claim that the franchises have run their affairs unprofessionally and are themselves responsible for not developing their own revenue streams in the last 8 years.

The PCB is already giving everything from the PSL to the franchises who are heavily dependent on the PCB for everything. Why should the PCB compromise on their fees if the franchises don't know how to make a profit?

 

[FearlessRoar]

Zaka Ashraf, Chairman PCB Management Committee, held a press conference on Wednesday at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. During the press conference, the chairman addressed the sale of PSL broadcast and live-streaming rights. PCB COO Salman Naseer and League Commissioner Naila Bhatti were also present alongside the chairman.

Naila Bhatti expanded on PSL broadcast and live-streaming rights:

“Yesterday, we had the domestic broadcast and livestreaming rights sale for the next two editions of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). We were apprehensive because of the country’s economic situation but we got a great price. We had four bidders – Geo Sports, Ten Sports, PTV Sports and ARY Sports. ARY Sports had the highest bid in the second round. It was around 45 per cent more than the last time so it was an excellent bid.

“Our bid committee has franchise owners too and since most of this money goes to them, they were very happy. The live-streaming bid went well too and there were many contenders. It went to a new company – an Islamabad-based company called Walee Technologies – as they had a very aggressive bid. It was 113 per cent more than the last cycle. It goes to show that HBL PSL as a brand has become very important and people want to be associated with the brand.

“The live-streaming bid exceeded the base-price. The broadcast bid did not exceed. However, earlier we had gotten done a valuation for the broadcast deal by a third-party company. The bid exceeded the valuation by over a billion.”

 

[Nikhil_cric]

6.3 billion PKR is $22.4 million right? Also $ 6.6 million for digital rights. So, the total comes up to $ 29 million for 2 years or $ 14.5 million per year.

Is than increase, in dollar terms, from previous rights sale?

 

[Savak]

6.3 billion PKR is $22.4 million right? Also $ 6.6 million for digital rights. So, the total comes up to $ 29 million for 2 years or $ 14.5 million per year.

Is than increase, in dollar terms, from previous rights sale?

Very marginal, almost stagnation. Growth should be celebrated when it exceeds 100%. Increase of 20-40% is a pittance for a 8 year league. Franchises will be frustrated by the lack of financial growth. Even a wife gets frustrated by her husbands failure to provide reasonable financial security in ten years of marriage.

 

[RidiculousMan]

Naa, if you have 4 people who are similar than the show becomes boring.

The cricket analysis is mainly done by Misbah and 4th junior guy. If they are to add Bazid Khan than he should be in place of Malik.

Fans like to listen to nostalgic conversation, and when ever Akram has anything to share about his playing days its great to hear. But yes, he sometimes starts fuming over petty things, but the best thing is the host than makes fun of him for it.

This is why I liked all of them. Waqar was missing last time though

 

[cricketjoshila]

PCB could claim that the franchises have run their affairs unprofessionally and are themselves responsible for not developing their own revenue streams in the last 8 years.

The PCB is already giving everything from the PSL to the franchises who are heavily dependent on the PCB for everything. Why should the PCB compromise on their fees if the franchises don't know how to make a profit?

All franchisees even in the IPL are dependent on the central revenue pool for most of the funds. The broadcast deal is the majority of that pool.

PCBs duty was to make sure that revenue pool grows exponentially. It hasn't.

 

[RidiculousMan]

6.3 billion PKR is $22.4 million right? Also $ 6.6 million for digital rights. So, the total comes up to $ 29 million for 2 years or $ 14.5 million per year.

Is than increase, in dollar terms, from previous rights sale?

I don't think we'll see any substantial growth in terms of $ anytime soon. That is if we are assuming PSL survives.

The country went in a massive economic downward spiral and inflation when Imran's government was ousted.

 

[Nikhil_cric]

Very marginal, almost stagnation. Growth should be celebrated when it exceeds 100%. Increase of 20-40% is a pittance for a 8 year league. Franchises will be frustrated by the lack of financial growth. Even a wife gets frustrated by her husbands failure to provide reasonable financial security in ten years of marriage.

So it's only grown 40 % in 8 years?

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

Who’s going to tune it to listen to Misbah and Bazid bore the life out of them?

Misbah is hopeless, I quite like Bazid. He has a dry sense of humour and he can actually make some insightful points.

 

[Rana]

Misbah is hopeless, I quite like Bazid. He has a dry sense of humour and he can actually make some insightful points.

That’s why the replacement should be between Bazid and Misbah

If you replace Bazid with anyone but him, then it will be a tribute to 1930s cricket

 

[MenInG]

That’s why the replacement should be between Bazid and Misbah

If you replace Bazid with anyone but him, then it will be a tribute to 1930s cricket

Last post on this topic in this thread.

Thread is for Broadcast rights.

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

Very marginal, almost stagnation. Growth should be celebrated when it exceeds 100%. Increase of 20-40% is a pittance for a 8 year league. Franchises will be frustrated by the lack of financial growth. Even a wife gets frustrated by her husbands failure to provide reasonable financial security in ten years of marriage.

According to Chairman of PCB Zaka Ashraf, The franchisees are very happy with the progress. If they are putting their money in and feel that they are not getting value back, then they should be voicing their concerns.

 

[shariqnoor]

Who's the production partner of the PSL?

Used to be Sunset+Vine previously. Are they still around?

 

[SportsWarrior]

6.3 billion PKR is $22.4 million right? Also $ 6.6 million for digital rights. So, the total comes up to $ 29 million for 2 years or $ 14.5 million per year.

Is than increase, in dollar terms, from previous rights sale?

$29 million + add $3 million more for gate proceeds. You have $32 million for two years. $16 million per year means every franchise will get around $2.65 per year per franchise. Is that enough for paying every players + support staff, stay, travel, promotions, after match parties, security, etc.. Having been associated with event management business, there is no way it is profitable at the price point. I don't see them making any profit until the yearly earning is atleast $5 million per franchise. Hope that the owners have deep pockets or use PSL as a ad for other profit businesses.

 

[Savak]

According to Chairman of PCB Zaka Ashraf, The franchisees are very happy with the progress. If they are putting their money in and feel that they are not getting value back, then they should be voicing their concerns.

Chairman's words are useless. We will see after the end of the 10 year period which franchises will be ready to rebid for the teams and if they do, at what price? Will the PCB be able to find new Franchise owners?

The league desperately needs a big capital injection of $20-25 million from somewhere which the Pakistani markets are not providing.

 

[Savak]

$29 million + add $3 million more for gate proceeds. You have $32 million for two years. $16 million per year means every franchise will get around $2.65 per year per franchise. Is that enough for paying every players + support staff, stay, travel, promotions, after match parties, security, etc.. Having been associated with event management business, there is no way it is profitable at the price point. I don't see them making any profit until the yearly earning is atleast $5 million per franchise. Hope that the owners have deep pockets or use PSL as a ad for other profit businesses.

Cricket Joshilla is correct, the biggest expense for the Franchises is the Franchise Fees which are very hefty and is giving the PCB $16 million in annual income. If the PCB reduces it, it will reduce the burden on the Franchises and will leave them some space to increase the salary caps but the question is what will be in it for the PCB then if each and everything is tilted towards the Franchises?

 

[JattMaula]

$29 million + add $3 million more for gate proceeds. You have $32 million for two years. $16 million per year means every franchise will get around $2.65 per year per franchise. Is that enough for paying every players + support staff, stay, travel, promotions, after match parties, security, etc.. Having been associated with event management business, there is no way it is profitable at the price point. I don't see them making any profit until the yearly earning is atleast $5 million per franchise. Hope that the owners have deep pockets or use PSL as a ad for other profit businesses.

Betting companies pay for their names on jerseys. Those millions are the real profits for PSL.


Though it is unlawful income

 

[Nikhil_cric]

$29 million + add $3 million more for gate proceeds. You have $32 million for two years. $16 million per year means every franchise will get around $2.65 per year per franchise. Is that enough for paying every players + support staff, stay, travel, promotions, after match parties, security, etc.. Having been associated with event management business, there is no way it is profitable at the price point. I don't see them making any profit until the yearly earning is atleast $5 million per franchise. Hope that the owners have deep pockets or use PSL as a ad for other profit businesses.

I was talking only about media rights but since we are considering overall revenue , won't PSL sponsorship revenue count as well then?

 

[Savak]

I was talking only about media rights but since we are considering overall revenue , won't PSL sponsorship revenue count as well then?

Its not much. The Franchises were heavily counting on the Gambling Surrogate company revenues but the Pakistani govt has eliminated that as well.

 

[Savak]

Most Cricket and Economic experts on tv are stating the amount is reasonable and good considering the economic situation in Pakistan.

 

[Savak]

Was watching a Cricket Blog hosted jointly by two experienced sports journalists and they stated the following facts

- Cricket Australia has signed a $67 million Big Bash Broadcast deal for 7 years which works out to $9.5 million. The growing potential of the Big Bash is limited because the matches are played when the bulk of the audience in the subcontinent is sleeping.

- ILT20 Broadcast rights were sold for $120 million for 10 years i.e. $12 million per year and this league is heavily funded by the Arab Sheikhs. How long will this league survive being played in empty stadiums?

- SAT20 Broadcast deal is $100 million for 10 years i.e. $10 million per year and the bulk of the revenue is from Star Sports i.e. Indian Market but SAT20 is the biggest threat to the PSL

BPL, Sri Lanka T20, CPL deals are not worth talking about

These leagues mentioned above benefit from having solid local economies, A list marque players, zero security issues.

The PSL as of now is at $14.5 million per year for the next 2 years and at this point is number 2 after IPL and that achievement is more praise worthy because the league does not have a window like the other leagues, no Indian investment, no Marque A players, is back by an economy in tatters and in a country where security is an issue. It shows that PSL's eye balls are indeed significant.

Scary to see how all the leagues combined is still way behind the IPL.

More concern is how will the PCB introduce 2 new teams when they can't get that big record breaking tv rights deal.

 

[zoeyfactor]

It's the responsibility of franchises to secure sponsorships and establish strategic partnerships with external entities supporting their franchises. I see big brands associated with Zalmi and they do a great job in promotions and marketing and don't see them complaining about making money. They are a good blueprint of exemplary PSL franchise. PCB should be appreciated for this broadcasting deal for a short period with rupee value devaluated at this level.

 

[FearlessRoar]

HBL PSL international media rights see a 41 per cent increase

The HBL PSL international media rights have seen a significant rise in value as TransGroup FZE acquired the rights for the ninth and tenth editions of the T20 league. There has been a significant 41 per cent increase in the rights’ value compared to the previous years.

A total of six parties took part in the bidding process, including ARY Communications/Myco, IMC (also known as GEO), SuperSport, Willow TV (also known as Times Internet) and Flow Sports.

TransGroup FZE won the rights for all regions except Pakistan, including TV broadcast and live-stream.

Previously, the international rights were sold for both FTP and HBL PSL together, but currently the international rights were sold for HBL Pakistan Super League only.

Naila Bhatti – League Commissioner: “The HBL PSL has made a record-breaking sale of international media rights which shows the attraction of the HBL PSL in overseas territories across the world. The HBL PSL continues to grow by leaps and bounds outside of Pakistan as well.”

Rao Usman Hashim – COO TransGroup: “TransGroup is proud to have acquired the global media rights for the HBL Pakistan Super League ninth and tenth editions. TransGroup, as Pakistan’s largest sports business group, has a rich history of supporting and standing behind HBL PSL from the very first season; and has always endeavoured to deliver maximum value for the PCB and the HBL PSL franchise teams.

 

[YousafTheBeast]

Ain’t no way Pakistan is safe to hold the PSL just after the elections

It’s a BIG call but I’d hold the event in UAE. I’d rather lose one season of the PSL at home than to be banned for another 10+ years of hosting games, that too with the CT25 coming up.

 

[Slim]

Was watching a Cricket Blog hosted jointly by two experienced sports journalists and they stated the following facts

- Cricket Australia has signed a $67 million Big Bash Broadcast deal for 7 years which works out to $9.5 million. The growing potential of the Big Bash is limited because the matches are played when the bulk of the audience in the subcontinent is sleeping.

- ILT20 Broadcast rights were sold for $120 million for 10 years i.e. $12 million per year and this league is heavily funded by the Arab Sheikhs. How long will this league survive being played in empty stadiums?

- SAT20 Broadcast deal is $100 million for 10 years i.e. $10 million per year and the bulk of the revenue is from Star Sports i.e. Indian Market but SAT20 is the biggest threat to the PSL

BPL, Sri Lanka T20, CPL deals are not worth talking about

These leagues mentioned above benefit from having solid local economies, A list marque players, zero security issues.

The PSL as of now is at $14.5 million per year for the next 2 years and at this point is number 2 after IPL and that achievement is more praise worthy because the league does not have a window like the other leagues, no Indian investment, no Marque A players, is back by an economy in tatters and in a country where security is an issue. It shows that PSL's eye balls are indeed significant.

Scary to see how all the leagues combined is still way behind the IPL.

More concern is how will the PCB introduce 2 new teams when they can't get that big record breaking tv rights deal.

Its a testament to Pakistani market's potential that even after the Arabian and Indian pump, PSL can still pull better broadcast deal numbers. Only if Pakistan's economy improves, PSL can become a major revenue generator for PSL leaving other leagues in absolute dust bar IPL.

 

[cricket4all]

Geo News has brought the PSL TV rights for the UK this year. Sky Sports had them before.

 

[Savak]

Geo News has brought the PSL TV rights for the UK this year. Sky Sports had them before.

Not good news, this means Sky Sports was not interested in the PSL this time around?

 

[mazkhan]

Not good news, this means Sky Sports was not interested in the PSL this time around?

Because no one in the UK cares about league cricket and that to a league in pakistan apart from expat pakistani origin population and even amongst that expat only proper cricketer followers will follow the tournament .

My mum and dad don't even know what psl is


As for ipl psl bpl etc vast majority of UK white population has no interest. I don't even think most UK population even follow the English friends life t20

Cricket itself is a niche market in the UK its followed by the upper middle class and gentry class.

 

[MK7Z]

Does that mean Virgin TV subscribers won't be able to watch it as they don't have Geo as far as I know.

 

[cricket4all]

Does that mean Virgin TV subscribers won't be able to watch it as they don't have Geo as far as I know.

That’s correct

 

[cricket4all]

Good news as Sky Sports look like ALSO showing PSL 2024. It’s showing today on sky tv guide from Saturday onwards.
Details likely to be announced soon.

 

[Theo_14]

Good news as Sky Sports look like ALSO showing PSL 2024. It’s showing today on sky tv guide from Saturday onwards.
Details likely to be announced soon.

Anything announced as of yet for UK folks?

 

[MK7Z]

Anything announced as of yet for UK folks?

Yes as per the post before yours, sky sports will be showing it.

Cricket - Watch Live Cricket | TV Listings | Sky Sports

Dates, times and channels for live Cricket on Sky Sports, including the Ashes, ICC World Cup, Indian Premier League, County and International Cricket.

www.skysports.com

 

[MK7Z]

Good news as Sky Sports look like ALSO showing PSL 2024. It’s showing today on sky tv guide from Saturday onwards.
Details likely to be announced soon.

Yup.

Cricket - Watch Live Cricket | TV Listings | Sky Sports

Dates, times and channels for live Cricket on Sky Sports, including the Ashes, ICC World Cup, Indian Premier League, County and International Cricket.

www.skysports.com

 

[BouncerGuy]

Indian Premier League's "Digital Rating Was 130 Million, Pakistan Super League's Is...": Najam Sethi's Bold Claim

The eighth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) ended on Saturday with Lahore Qalandars emerging as the winners. The Shaheen Afridi-led side defeated Multan Sultans by 1 run in a thrilling summit clash. Opting to bat first, the Qalandars posted a huge total of 200/6 in 20 overs with Abdullah Shafique smashing 65 off 40 balls and Shaheen playing a quick knock of 44* off just 15 balls. Later, the Sultans were restricted at 199/8 as the Qalandars lifted their second PSL title. As the thrilling T20 league of Pakistan is now over, the fans are gearing up for the 16th edition of Indian Premier League (IPL), which will kick-start from March 31.

IPL is regarded as the richest and the most loved T20 league in the world, due to it's massive fan-following and nail-biting action. However, Pakistan Cricket Board Chief Najam Sethi has now come up with a shocking opinion regarding the two leagues and stated that PSL is a bigger success than IPL in terms of digital ratings.

"Let's talk about digital. PSL was only at the half stage, so I asked about our digital rating. Najam Sethi show used to have a 0.5 rating on TV, whereas PSL is getting a rating of more than 11. So, it would be 18 or 20, when it completes," Sethi said in a press conference ahead of the PSL final.

"Over 150 million people watched it digitally. It is not a small thing. At the same stage, IPL's digital rating was 130 million and PSL's is more than 150 million. So this is a great success for Pakistan", he added.

Talking about IPL, the first match of the cash-rich league will be played between the defending champions Gujarat Titans and Chennai Super Kings, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

SOURCE: NDTV

 

[cricketjoshila]

L

Indian Premier League's "Digital Rating Was 130 Million, Pakistan Super League's Is...": Najam Sethi's Bold Claim

The eighth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) ended on Saturday with Lahore Qalandars emerging as the winners. The Shaheen Afridi-led side defeated Multan Sultans by 1 run in a thrilling summit clash. Opting to bat first, the Qalandars posted a huge total of 200/6 in 20 overs with Abdullah Shafique smashing 65 off 40 balls and Shaheen playing a quick knock of 44* off just 15 balls. Later, the Sultans were restricted at 199/8 as the Qalandars lifted their second PSL title. As the thrilling T20 league of Pakistan is now over, the fans are gearing up for the 16th edition of Indian Premier League (IPL), which will kick-start from March 31.

IPL is regarded as the richest and the most loved T20 league in the world, due to it's massive fan-following and nail-biting action. However, Pakistan Cricket Board Chief Najam Sethi has now come up with a shocking opinion regarding the two leagues and stated that PSL is a bigger success than IPL in terms of digital ratings.

"Let's talk about digital. PSL was only at the half stage, so I asked about our digital rating. Najam Sethi show used to have a 0.5 rating on TV, whereas PSL is getting a rating of more than 11. So, it would be 18 or 20, when it completes," Sethi said in a press conference ahead of the PSL final.

"Over 150 million people watched it digitally. It is not a small thing. At the same stage, IPL's digital rating was 130 million and PSL's is more than 150 million. So this is a great success for Pakistan", he added.

Talking about IPL, the first match of the cash-rich league will be played between the defending champions Gujarat Titans and Chennai Super Kings, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

SOURCE: NDTV

Is this last year's statement or has Sethi again started spouting rubbish.

 

[pakistani pride]

L


Is this last year's statement or has Sethi again started spouting rubbish.

What do you think?
When has Sethi actually said something which made sense?

 

[FearlessRoar]

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has formed a committee to sell media and production rights, live streaming and screening rights of the bilateral international series to be staged in Pakistan during the next three years.

PCB chief operating officer Salman Naseer and director commercial Babar Hameed are included in the committee.

Dawn has learnt that the PCB is expected to sell the media rights for Rs15-20 billion for 100 days of international matches to be held in the country during the next three years.

The PCB intends to give production rights for Rs10 billion and around Rs2 billion for the live streaming as well as screen rights.

Sources told Dawn that the PCB most probably will retain the same partners for the media and production rights, which had won the rights of ongoing PSL 9 and 10 including WorldTrans and ARY, respectively as the state-run Pakistan Television (PTV) may not show any interest to participate in the bidding process. The PTV did not feature in the bidding for PSL 9 and 10 too.

Dawn

 

[Major]

Indian Premier League's "Digital Rating Was 130 Million, Pakistan Super League's Is...": Najam Sethi's Bold Claim

The eighth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) ended on Saturday with Lahore Qalandars emerging as the winners. The Shaheen Afridi-led side defeated Multan Sultans by 1 run in a thrilling summit clash. Opting to bat first, the Qalandars posted a huge total of 200/6 in 20 overs with Abdullah Shafique smashing 65 off 40 balls and Shaheen playing a quick knock of 44* off just 15 balls. Later, the Sultans were restricted at 199/8 as the Qalandars lifted their second PSL title. As the thrilling T20 league of Pakistan is now over, the fans are gearing up for the 16th edition of Indian Premier League (IPL), which will kick-start from March 31.

IPL is regarded as the richest and the most loved T20 league in the world, due to it's massive fan-following and nail-biting action. However, Pakistan Cricket Board Chief Najam Sethi has now come up with a shocking opinion regarding the two leagues and stated that PSL is a bigger success than IPL in terms of digital ratings.

"Let's talk about digital. PSL was only at the half stage, so I asked about our digital rating. Najam Sethi show used to have a 0.5 rating on TV, whereas PSL is getting a rating of more than 11. So, it would be 18 or 20, when it completes," Sethi said in a press conference ahead of the PSL final.

"Over 150 million people watched it digitally. It is not a small thing. At the same stage, IPL's digital rating was 130 million and PSL's is more than 150 million. So this is a great success for Pakistan", he added.

Talking about IPL, the first match of the cash-rich league will be played between the defending champions Gujarat Titans and Chennai Super Kings, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

SOURCE: NDTV

this article was posted in 2023.

 

[Major]

L


Is this last year's statement or has Sethi again started spouting rubbish.

last year. This year the league has been substandard and very few are following it.

 

[chinaman00]

The PCB needs to be open and transparent about the broadcast bids. Not stating the actual dollar amount of the deal and simply claiming it grew “5%, 10%” over the last deal etc is deceptive. Needs to be upfront.

 

[JattMaula]

The PCB needs to be open and transparent about the broadcast bids. Not stating the actual dollar amount of the deal and simply claiming it grew “5%, 10%” over the last deal etc is deceptive. Needs to be upfront.

Why would they be open though?

If hard numbers damage the brand value then they will hide them. It's not like they are obliged to share them.

 

[cricketjoshila]

last year. This year the league has been substandard and very few are following it.

Last year also it was a lie.

 

[Major]

Last year also it was a lie.

Dont know and dont really care about these things. This doesnt concern fans.

This is something that concerns the directors of leagues and not fans.

For me what matters is the quality of broadcast and the hype for the league and this year it has been pathetic

 

[Savak]

Dont know and dont really care about these things. This doesnt concern fans.

This is something that concerns the directors of leagues and not fans.

For me what matters is the quality of broadcast and the hype for the league and this year it has been pathetic

It was a mistake to hold the league during the same time as the Elections. The blowback from the elections has negatively impacted the league. Crowds in the PSL only started picking up once the uncertainty regarding government formation became settled.

 

[The Bald Eagle]

94 per cent increase in home series streaming rights for Pakistan region​

The consortium of Tamasha and Trans Group FZE has been awarded live-streaming rights for the home T20I series against New Zealand and also the women’s home series against West Indies which involves five T20Is and three ODIs.

In the public bidding process apart from Tamasha and Trans Group FZE, ARY Group, Tower Sports and Tapmad also took part in the process.

These rights involve streaming only in the Pakistan region. The streaming rights for the upcoming five-match home T20I series against New Zealand have seen a 94 per cent increase as compared to the last home series against the same opposition in 2023.

The fans will be able to stream both the home white-ball series involving the National men’s and women’s teams on the respective platforms with added quality.

PCB COO, Salman Naseer: “The increase in the value of international home series rights for the Pakistan region highlights the solid market interest which stems from hosting various international teams.

“The Pakistan Cricket Board congratulates the successful bidders and looks forward to continuing this healthy business deal. I want to thank the consortium of Tamasha and Trans Group FZE for their commitment and support towards Pakistan cricket.

“I am delighted for the fans who must be happy with the availability of various streaming platforms for the 13 white-ball international matches involving both the men’s and women’s teams in the next month. Hopefully, this will multiply the interest levels towards the game of cricket in the country.”

Trans Group COO, Rao Usman Hashim Khan: “Trans Group in partnership with Tamasha is proud to have acquired the PCB bilateral live-streaming rights for the two series. As Pakistan’s largest sports business group, Trans Group has always stood behind Pakistan Cricket and worked in association with the PCB to enhance the commercial potential of all its rights.

“As is evident through our record-breaking bid, Trans Group is excited to grow our digital media rights business with its partner Tamasha; and strongly believes in the potential which digital can unlock for cricket and the sports industry overall.”

Jazz Chief Digital Officer, Aamer Ejaz: “We are thrilled to secure the digital streaming rights for the Pakistan Vs New Zealand (Men) and Pakistan vs West Indies (Women) home series in partnership with Trans Group. Cricket stands as a pillar of cultural and sporting importance in our region, and by securing these rights, we reiterate our dedication to making cricket accessible on handheld devices across Pakistan.

“Tamasha has solidified its standing as the leading local video streaming platform, boasting over 75 channels and 2000+ VOD Titles. Our platform has adeptly customised its offerings to cater to the entertainment desires of the local audience, delivering an immersive experience aligned with their preferences.”

Source: PCB

 

[Sher Khan]

94 per cent increase in home series streaming rights for Pakistan region​

The consortium of Tamasha and Trans Group FZE has been awarded live-streaming rights for the home T20I series against New Zealand and also the women’s home series against West Indies which involves five T20Is and three ODIs.

In the public bidding process apart from Tamasha and Trans Group FZE, ARY Group, Tower Sports and Tapmad also took part in the process.

These rights involve streaming only in the Pakistan region. The streaming rights for the upcoming five-match home T20I series against New Zealand have seen a 94 per cent increase as compared to the last home series against the same opposition in 2023.

The fans will be able to stream both the home white-ball series involving the National men’s and women’s teams on the respective platforms with added quality.

PCB COO, Salman Naseer: “The increase in the value of international home series rights for the Pakistan region highlights the solid market interest which stems from hosting various international teams.

“The Pakistan Cricket Board congratulates the successful bidders and looks forward to continuing this healthy business deal. I want to thank the consortium of Tamasha and Trans Group FZE for their commitment and support towards Pakistan cricket.

“I am delighted for the fans who must be happy with the availability of various streaming platforms for the 13 white-ball international matches involving both the men’s and women’s teams in the next month. Hopefully, this will multiply the interest levels towards the game of cricket in the country.”

Trans Group COO, Rao Usman Hashim Khan: “Trans Group in partnership with Tamasha is proud to have acquired the PCB bilateral live-streaming rights for the two series. As Pakistan’s largest sports business group, Trans Group has always stood behind Pakistan Cricket and worked in association with the PCB to enhance the commercial potential of all its rights.

“As is evident through our record-breaking bid, Trans Group is excited to grow our digital media rights business with its partner Tamasha; and strongly believes in the potential which digital can unlock for cricket and the sports industry overall.”

Jazz Chief Digital Officer, Aamer Ejaz: “We are thrilled to secure the digital streaming rights for the Pakistan Vs New Zealand (Men) and Pakistan vs West Indies (Women) home series in partnership with Trans Group. Cricket stands as a pillar of cultural and sporting importance in our region, and by securing these rights, we reiterate our dedication to making cricket accessible on handheld devices across Pakistan.

“Tamasha has solidified its standing as the leading local video streaming platform, boasting over 75 channels and 2000+ VOD Titles. Our platform has adeptly customised its offerings to cater to the entertainment desires of the local audience, delivering an immersive experience aligned with their preferences.”

Source: PCB

Great work by Mohsin Naqvi. Good news for Pak cricket fans. Solid profit.

 

[Savak]

Great work by Mohsin Naqvi. Good news for Pak cricket fans. Solid profit.

PCB hasn't released the exact amount. Percentage means nothing if the amount is small.

 

[The Bald Eagle]

Tower Sports has acquired satellite rights for ICC cricket events in Pakistan until the end of 2025.

This groundbreaking agreement solidifies Tower Sports’ position as the premier destination for cricket enthusiasts across the nation, offering unparalleled access to six flagship ICC World events.

Geoff Allardice, CEO of the ICC, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, “Pakistan is a very important market for world cricket with a large and passionate fan base.”

Duraid Qureshi, CEO of HUM Network Limited (HNL), reiterated Tower Sports’ commitment to delivering exceptional sports entertainment.

Arif Hussain, CEO of Tower Sports, highlighted the transformative impact of the collaboration, promising an immersive viewing experience that will redefine cricket broadcasting in Pakistan. He said that “this partnership marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s sporting journey and reaffirms HNL’s dedication to providing top-notch entertainment experiences to its audience.”

Source: Pak Observer

 

[Nikhil_cric]

6.3 billion PKR is $22.4 million right? Also $ 6.6 million for digital rights. So, the total comes up to $ 29 million for 2 years or $ 14.5 million per year.

Is than increase, in dollar terms, from previous rights sale?

Bump. $14.5 mill per year for PSL terrestrial + digital rights.

But apparently for the next 3 year period where PAK plays 26 ODIs, 24 T20's and 11 Tests, the max. bid is $7.85 mill.

PCB set a reserve price of $21 mill. Nobody willing to pay more than 1/3 of reserve price.

Translates to $ 2.6 millon per year.

This is shocking. International bilateral cricket will die rapidly if this continues.

Test cricket especially will be cut even further.

 

[Savak]

Bump. $14.5 mill per year for PSL terrestrial + digital rights.

But apparently for the next 3 year period where PAK plays 26 ODIs, 24 T20's and 11 Tests, the max. bid is $7.85 mill.

PCB set a reserve price of $21 mill. Nobody willing to pay more than 1/3 of reserve price.

Translates to $ 2.6 millon per year.

This is shocking. International bilateral cricket will die rapidly if this continues.

Test cricket especially will be cut even further.

Not right to use this example to highlight the death of bilateral cricket.

This is a message by the international broadcasters to the PCB to fix the team rather than stick to the same tried and tested bunch or don't expect a high billing anymore and accept being paid what you are actually worth.