The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), while clarifiying some impressions with reference to a news report titled ‘Sponsors’ lukewarm response to regional teams big setback for PCB’ published in Dawn on Aug 22, 2015, has said that the regional sponsorship model is a widely appreciated step intended to promote domestic cricket.
By improving competition, player remunerations, and playing facilities, the model will go a long way in further helping the PCB to unearth talent that represents Pakistan internationally.
Also, the PCB will not be reducing the amount of money designated for regional associations. The new model will, in fact, increase the total spending on a regional association since the PCB grant will be supplemented by money from sponsors.
There are a number of interested sponsors but they are being screened in order to ensure that only professional partners come on board.
Also, it must be understood that the regional sponsorship model has nothing in common with the PSL marketing plan. The PSL is a completely different franchise model and a different product altogether and will see top international and Pakistani players taking part in the competition.
Market interest in PSL also remains unprecedented and the same shall be made public in due time.
Published in Dawn, August 23rd, 2015
