The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced that the Pakistan Super League (PSL) will proceed from March 26, but without spectators and limited to just two cities due to prevailing conditions.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed that PSL matches will start from March 26 as planned. However, all matches will be held without crowds until the situation in the region improves.
He also announced that the PSL opening ceremony has been canceled as part of revised arrangements.
Matches restricted to Lahore and Karachi
Under the new plan, PSL matches will only be played in Lahore and Karachi. Naqvi apologized to fans in Faisalabad and Peshawar for withdrawing hosting rights, acknowledging the disappointment caused.
He reiterated that matches would be confined to just two cities for logistical and security reasons.
Naqvi said consultations regarding PSL had been ongoing for several days with the government of Pakistan, prime minister, and security agencies. The final decision was made under the PM's savings policy, keeping national priorities in mind.
He emphasized that the government played an active role in shaping the decision.
Naqvi noted that if the PSL had been postponed, it might not have been possible to hold the tournament at all this year. To address financial concerns, the PCB will compensate franchises for losses in gate money.
He added that ticket holders will receive refunds, ensuring fans are not financially affected. He also insisted that there was no security issue, as the country's intelligence agencies were alert.
"We have full faith in our agencies," the PCB chairman remarked, adding that the agencies had prevented many things preemptively.
Franchises consulted, viewership expectations
PSL Chief Executive Salman Naseer confirmed that franchises were fully consulted before finalizing the decision. Despite restrictions, Naqvi expressed confidence that the league would achieve record viewership this season.
He highlighted that PSL has grown into an international brand and continues to attract global attention.
Foreign players are expected to start arriving from tonight, according to the PCB chairman. A revised schedule will be issued to minimize player movement between venues, ensuring smoother logistics.
Legal action against players who withdrew
Naqvi also revealed that legal action is being taken against players who left the league. He stressed that maintaining the integrity and commitments of the tournament is essential.
Reaffirming the board’s commitment, Naqvi said the PSL will proceed as scheduled from March 26. He added that while the format has been adjusted, the PCB is determined to deliver a successful tournament under challenging circumstances.
