awad Sarwar, owner of the new Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Hyderabad Kingsmen, engaged in a heated exchange with older franchise owners during a recent PSL Governing Council meeting held in London.
According to sources, following sarcastic remarks by an existing owner, Sarwar criticized the veteran owners’ persistent portrayals of financial hardship. Sarwar asserted that purchasing a franchise was a commercial decision that yielded earnings and publicity rather than a favor to the league, emphasizing that his franchise paid significantly higher fees in a single year than older teams paid over a decade. He urged struggling franchises to investigate internal inefficiencies and explore international sponsorship opportunities instead of complaining.
Sarwar additionally called on Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officials to train individuals associated with national cricket in professional conduct. None of the present owners or PCB officials interjected during his statements. During the meeting, another franchise owner raised concerns over player compensation, arguing that recent poor performances by national players do not justify high salaries and requesting the PCB to review payment structures ahead of the next edition.
