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Multan Sultans' owner Ali Tareen blasts PSL for Ali Zafar selection

Multan Sultans' owner Ali Tareen blasts PSL for Ali Zafar selection

Express Tribune27-03-2025
Multan Sultans' owner Ali Khan Tareen has criticised the Pakistan Super League (PSL) over its decision to have Ali Zafar perform the anthem for the league's 10th edition, questioning the lack of diversity in artist selection.
Taking to Instagram, Tareen expressed frustration over PSL's repeated reliance on Zafar, writing, "Pakistan has so many amazing artists. Yet almost half of our anthems have been given to the same middle-aged dude, despite franchises raising concerns. They talk about making this the biggest PSL ever, yet keep giving space to the same recycled voices."
Repeated selection raises questions
The PSL announced on Tuesday that Zafar would perform the official anthem for PSL X, marking his fifth time as the league's featured singer. He previously sang "Ab Khel Ke Dikha" (2016), "Ab Khel Jamay Ga" (2017), "Dil Se Jaan Laga De" (2018), and made a comeback with "Khul Ke Khel" in 2024 after a hiatus following legal issues with singer Meesha Shafi.
Tareen's criticism reflects broader concerns over PSL's approach to artist selection. In the past, franchises have reportedly pushed for fresh voices, but the league has continued to bring back Zafar despite objections.
What's next?
Despite the backlash, PSL has not indicated any plans to reconsider its choice. A release date for Zafar's PSL 10 anthem has yet to be announced, while the tournament kicks off on April 11.
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