Former Multan Sultans owner Ali Tareen responded to the recent sale and renaming of the PSL franchise, now called Rawalpindi, following a high-profile auction earlier today.
Tareen, who participated in the bidding process but did not place any offers, shared a brief message on X, writing: “Janoob Ki Pehchan,” reflecting his enduring connection to the southern region of Pakistan.
The franchise was sold to Walee Technologies for a record PKR 2.45 billion after a competitive auction involving CD Ventures, Particle Igniter, and Walee Technologies. The auction began with a base price of PKR 1.82 billion and saw intense bidding before Walee Technologies emerged as the winning bidder.
Following the acquisition, the new owners decided to rename the team from Multan Sultans to Rawalpindi, citing personal ties and childhood connections to the city.
The auction ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including PCB Chairman Najam Sethi and former Pakistan cricket star Zaheer Abbas.
Multan Sultans joined the PSL in 2017, initially owned by Schon Group. Ali Tareen took over the franchise after PCB terminated the original contract and managed the team for seven years.
Tareen’s decision not to renew the 10-year ownership agreement came amid strained relations with the PCB.
The board had alleged violations of contract terms and sought a public apology and retraction of certain statements, leading to the team being put up for auction once again.
