KARACHI: The Pakistan Cricket Board has finalized the most expensive media rights deal in HBL Pakistan Super League history, awarding the four-year broadcasting and digital rights to Walee Technologies for a total of Rs 26 billion. The agreement will provide the board with approximately Rs 6.5 billion annually, marking a significant increase from the previous deal, which was valued at Rs 6.5 billion per year. Walee Technologies, which also owns the Pindi franchise, is expected to broadcast matches through the state-run television network alongside its digital platforms.
Three companies participated in the bidding process, including two for television rights and one exclusively for digital rights. Walee’s combined bid of Rs 26 billion surpassed the reserve price of Rs 23.5 billion, which included Rs 16.5 billion for TV rights and the remainder for live streaming. A private sports channel had offered Rs 9 billion for television coverage only, while another company bid Rs 3.5 billion for digital streaming. Two major sports channels, initially interested in competing, were disqualified due to outstanding dues exceeding Rs 470 million and Rs 600 million, respectively. The board allowed time to settle these amounts, but payments were not completed, resulting in disqualification.
To prevent collusion and maintain transparency, the PCB restricted consortium bids in this cycle, allowing companies to compete either for broadcast rights, live streaming rights, or both. Each category required a bid security of Rs 100 million. The winning bid amount will be adjusted accordingly, while unsuccessful bidders will receive refunds. The deal also includes a bank guarantee of Rs 6.5 billion from Walee Technologies, ensuring timely payment and providing the board recourse in case of default.
The upcoming 11th edition of the league, beginning on March 26, will feature 44 matches, including two additional fixtures due to the inclusion of new teams. According to league regulations, if a broadcast deal exceeds Rs 3 billion, Rs 500,000 will be allocated for signing iconic foreign cricketers after production costs are deducted. Of the remaining revenue, 80 percent will be distributed to the PCB, while the remaining 20 percent will be shared with the franchises. Production costs for last year’s edition exceeded Rs 1 billion. The record-breaking deal reflects the growing commercial value of the HBL PSL and the increasing importance of combined television and digital rights in the sports media landscape.
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