The Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Multan Sultans has been sold for a record-breaking Rs2.45 billion, marking a significant moment in the league's history. But here's where it gets controversial... The new owner, Walee Technologies, has announced that the team's name will be changed to Rawalpindi, sparking debates among fans and experts alike. This move has raised questions about the future of the Multan Sultans brand and the potential impact on the team's identity and legacy. The auction, held in Lahore, was a highly anticipated event, with the winning bid also covering the annual fee to maintain ownership for the next decade. The new owner, Ahsan Tahir, expressed excitement about the change, stating, 'Are you ready for a surprise? We will be going for Rawalpindi!'. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, acknowledged the concerns surrounding the brand's reputation and age, promising to find a solution that respects the team's history and legacy. The auction's opening bid of Rs1.82 billion was set based on the second-highest bid for the Sialkot team, which was sold for Rs1.85 billion. The sale of Multan Sultans comes after a period of uncertainty, as the franchise was left ownerless last November when the PCB did not extend a renewal offer to the previous owner, Ali Khan Tareen. The new owner, Walee Technologies, is a global company specializing in media, finance, and technology projects, and has previously acquired PSL livestreaming rights. The franchise, founded in 2017, has a rich history, having won the league in 2021. The change in ownership and team name has sparked discussions about the future of the Multan Sultans brand and the potential impact on the team's identity and legacy. What do you think? Do you agree or disagree with the new owner's decision to change the team's name? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
