Reports of a possible Multan Sultans name change after new ownership spark backlash, with fans warning city identity and PSL history could be erased.
WEBDESK – MediaBites – Courtesy Amir Hashim Khakwani
A controversy has emerged after reports that the Pakistan Super League franchise Multan Sultans may have its name changed following a change in ownership, drawing strong criticism from commentators and fans who say the move undermines regional identity.
Columnist Aamir Khakwani termed the decision “unfortunate and unjustified,” arguing that the franchise is an established team, not a newly created one. He noted that Multan Sultans has participated in multiple PSL seasons and built its own records, fan base and recognition, which could be disrupted if the name is altered.
The franchise was previously owned by Alamgir Tareen of the Tareen family, under whose leadership Multan Sultans won their maiden PSL title. Following his passing, control moved to Ali Tareen. The team later went off the league’s ownership structure and, after a new bidding process, was purchased by the Walee Group — after which the reported name change surfaced, further intensifying the debate among supporters.
Critics questioned how supporters in other cities would react if similar changes were made to teams such as Lahore Qalandars, Karachi Kings, Quetta Gladiators or Peshawar Zalmi. They argue that franchises represent cities and communities, and renaming them after ownership transfers risks weakening that connection.
Supporters of the status quo point out that when new teams like Sialkot or Hyderabad were introduced in domestic structures, owners were free to choose names because those franchises did not previously exist. In contrast, Multan Sultans is already an established brand in the league.
The issue has sparked calls for the Pakistan Cricket Board to review the decision and retain the existing name to preserve continuity, records and fan loyalty.
