In a significant development ahead of the much-anticipated Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 11, Syed Gohar Shah, the new owner of the Multan Sultans, has addressed fans with a heartfelt statement following the acquisition of the franchise by his company, CD Ventures. This takeover marks a fresh chapter for the team, which has long been a symbol of pride for South Punjab cricket enthusiasts.
The announcement came after CD Ventures successfully secured a majority stake in the franchise, which was previously known as the Sialkot Stallionz. This team had originally been purchased by OZ Developers for Rs 1.85 billion during the PSL auction held earlier this year in January. The transition of ownership was officially unveiled during a joint press conference in Lahore, attended by key figures including PSL CEO Salman Naseer and the outgoing franchise owner, Hamza Majeed.
During the press briefing, Salman Naseer highlighted the positive impact of the takeover, revealing that the franchise’s valuation has now increased to Rs 2 billion annually following the restructuring. This financial boost reflects the renewed confidence in the team’s potential and the strategic vision brought forward by Gohar Shah. Furthermore, Naseer confirmed that, at Shah’s request, the franchise would revert to its original identity as the Multan Sultans, reinstating the team’s deep-rooted connection to the South Punjab region.
In his emotional address to the fans, Gohar Shah expressed immense pride and joy at the return of the Multan Sultans to the PSL. He described the team as the true representatives of South Punjab, emphasizing the importance of regional identity in Pakistan’s premier cricket competition. Shah’s reflections took a nostalgic turn as he recounted his earliest memories of cricket in his hometown of Jalalpur Pirwala, where village matches brought communities together in celebration and camaraderie.
“My earliest cricket memory goes back to a local match between Jalalpur Pirwala and Balewala, played at one of the school grounds in Haveli Lang,” Shah recalled. “The atmosphere was electric, and the unity among the villagers after the final ball was unforgettable. These moments have stayed with me and fuel my passion for the game and this team.”
Shah outlined his motivations for acquiring the franchise, focusing on two main objectives: safeguarding the region’s representation on Pakistan’s biggest cricketing stage and raising the overall standard of cricket played by the team. He stressed the importance of ensuring that South Punjab’s voice remains strong and visible in the PSL, while also aspiring to develop a style of cricket that is both entertaining and competitive on an international level.
“It was crucial for me to prevent any loss of our regional identity in the league,” Shah explained. “We aim to deliver cricket that excites fans and simultaneously contributes to strengthening Pakistan’s cricket infrastructure, enabling us to compete and excel globally.”
Addressing the supporters directly, Shah called on them to stand firmly behind the Multan Sultans, reminding them of the franchise’s impressive track record, which includes reaching four finals in the last five PSL seasons. “We fought hard to keep this team alive, and now we need you to fill the stands with your unwavering support,” he urged. “Your enthusiasm and commitment will be vital as we embark on this new journey.”
Expressing gratitude, Shah acknowledged the crucial role played by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi, whose decisive leadership helped facilitate the swift return of the franchise. He also praised PSL CEO Salman Naseer for his instrumental efforts in managing the ownership transition smoothly. Additionally, Shah extended thanks to his father, Barrister Najaf Shah, and adviser Imran Ahmad Khan for their guidance throughout the acquisition process.
Shah did not forget to commend his internal team, who worked tirelessly around the clock to finalize the deal just weeks before the PSL 11 season commenced. In a gesture of respect and appreciation, he also recognized the contributions of the Tareen family, the previous owners, for their dedication in building the franchise into one of the league’s most formidable teams.
“I want to take a moment to thank the Tareen family for their hard work and commitment in shaping this franchise into the powerhouse it is today,” Shah stated. He concluded his message with a rallying cry to the fans and the people of Multan: “The time has come. The new Multan Sultans are here, ready to make their mark.”
