The ninth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) is set to kick off in Lahore on February 17, 2024. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) states that they followed the agreed procedure for awarding TV production rights, considering both technical and financial aspects. However, a delay in granting the rights led to a dispute. The technical bid, where 60% of the marks were allocated, resulted in one company being disqualified, leaving only two in the running.
Interestingly, all three companies expressed concerns about the marking process and appealed to the Grievance committee. Acting Chairman PCB, Shah Khawar, resolved the issue amicably, and after a hearing, all companies saw adjustments in their scores. Even the initially disqualified company was reinstated in the competition. Subsequently, the company ranked second in the financial bid was given preference over the one with the lowest bid. This unexpected change led to an increase in production costs by nearly Rs. 50 million.
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As a result, the total production cost for this year’s PSL is estimated at Rs. 1.15 billion, with an expected rise to Rs. 1.21 billion next year. Franchises will bear 95% of these costs, despite the initially qualified company having the lowest bid.
- Technical Bid Controversy: Delays and Disqualification The process of awarding TV production rights for PSL 9 faced hurdles, including delays and the disqualification of a company in the technical bid, stirring controversy and disputes among involved parties.
- Financial Bid Surprise: Cost Increase and Franchise Contributions Unexpectedly, the focus shifted from the initially qualified company with the lowest bid to the second-ranked financial bidder, resulting in a significant rise in production costs. Franchises are now set to bear 95% of the total expenses, altering the financial dynamics of the PSL.