Resilient PSL X navigates challenges amid record-breaking viewership

Resilient PSL X navigates challenges amid record-breaking viewership

Asher Butt

LAHORE: The Pakistan Super League (PSL) X has set its sights on one of the most challenging cricket windows in its history. With Pakistan hosting the ICC Champions Trophy in February-March 2025, the tournament had to vacate its traditional slot, forcing the PCB to adapt and turn adversity into opportunity.

Global player pool adds star power

Despite scheduling shifts, PSL X secured a strong international player pool, featuring first-time participants such as David Warner, Daryl Mitchell, Finn Allen, Kyle Jamieson, Andries Gous, Mitchell Owen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Rishad Hussain, Sean Abbott, Adam Milne, and Kane Williamson. Kushal Mendis and Jason Holder also joined PSL for the first time.

Yet, the talent pool was so competitive that big names like Tim Southee, Jimmy Neesham, Ashton Agar, Usman Khawaja, and Reeza Hendricks went unpicked. Even ICC’s top-ranked T20I bowler Akeal Hosein has yet to make an appearance in the playing XI.

Star-studded commentary lineup

PSL X’s commentary panel introduced high-profile names, including former MCC chairman Mark Nicholas, England’s Sir Alistair Cook, and New Zealand’s Martin Guptill, marking their first commentary visit to Pakistan.

Digital viewership soars beyond expectations

While some matches saw smaller stadium crowds, PSL broke all previous digital viewership records.

• PSL’s live-streaming partners reported an 826.5% increase in views for the first three matches.
• By the 13th match, total views surpassed one billion.
• PSL’s own social media platforms reflected unprecedented engagement levels, shifting from millions to breaching the billion-view milestone.

Political tensions impact PSL’s digital presence

Despite the remarkable success, PSL’s social media channels, including some franchise pages, were blocked in India on May 2. When asked, the PCB reiterated its stance that politics should remain separate from cricket.

Franchise license renewals pose new challenges

As PSL X nears its conclusion, key commercial agreements and franchise licenses granted for 10 years are due for renewal.

For the first time in PSL’s history, the PCB and franchises have conflicting interests—while PCB aims to expand the league, franchises may seek to diminish its valuation, as higher valuation means increased franchise fees post-review by an independent expert.

This power struggle has reportedly led some franchises to limit fan engagement, while others have openly criticized PSL branding, potentially undermining the league’s growth.

New innovations elevate fan experience

In response, PCB has introduced several production enhancements, including:

• Urdu commentary feeds on TV broadcasts and live streams, increasing accessibility.
• Auto no-ball tracking technology, improving officiating accuracy.
• Advanced match analysis tools, enhancing viewing experience.
• Fan raffles in stadiums, offering motorbikes, smartphones, and gift hampers as incentives.

Karachi’s stadium experience needs attention

While most matches have seen packed stadiums, Karachi’s fan experience has emerged as a concern, prompting calls for improvements.

Looking ahead: expansion plans & competitive play

With the final phase of PSL X approaching, the PCB is balancing expansion plans, while franchises must ensure competitive gameplay for a strong finish.