In a last-minute surprise ahead of the Pakistan Super League (PSL 11) franchise auction, Ali Khan Tareen announced that he, along with the Tareen Khan Group and Deharki Sugar Mills (DSM), will not participate in the bidding for the league’s two new teams.
The auction was scheduled for 4:15 pm at the Jinnah Convention Centre in Islamabad, with Tareen widely considered a leading potential bidder. His withdrawal was confirmed just minutes before the proceedings began.
In a social media statement, Tareen explained that the decision followed “careful consideration.” Reflecting on his family’s previous involvement with the Multan Sultans, he said their participation was motivated by a mission beyond cricket—representing South Punjab and highlighting a region he feels has been historically overlooked. He emphasized that any future return to PSL ownership would need to be driven by the same purpose, with South Punjab remaining closest to his heart.
Tareen indicated that while he is stepping back for now, he may return in the future, particularly if the Multan franchise is put up for sale. He concluded his message with good wishes for the remaining bidders and a playful remark: “May the most outspoken owner win.”