Amid ongoing conflict and heightened tensions, several Pakistani cities were reportedly targeted by Indian drone strikes. Among these incidents, a drone strike occurred yesterday near the Rawalpindi Stadium, sparking rumors that the Pakistan Super League (PSL) might be suspended. A scheduled match at the Pindi Stadium was canceled, adding fuel to the speculation.
In response, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has now officially decided to relocate the remainder of the PSL to the United Arab Emirates. PCB stated that the final schedule and venues for the remaining eight matches will be announced soon.
Following the postponement of yesterday’s Karachi Kings vs Peshawar Zalmi match, the PCB held an emergency meeting. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi also held separate discussions with foreign players concerned about their safety. These discussions ultimately led to the decision to shift the tournament abroad.
Pakistan claims that several Indian drones struck different cities within its borders. India, on the other hand, stated the strikes were in retaliation to a failed military incursion by Pakistan into Indian territory on Wednesday night. A day earlier, India had launched missile strikes on nine locations in Pakistan-administered Azad Kashmir. Pakistan initially reported 26 fatalities, which it later revised to over 100.
According to Geo Super, a Pakistani media outlet, the PCB made the decision to relocate the tournament abroad as a precautionary measure to avoid further escalation. Ensuring the safety of all individuals involved in the PSL remains the board’s top priority. Those who have purchased tickets for the upcoming matches will receive refunds. Physical ticket holders can collect refunds from designated venues, including VIP galleries, while online ticket refunds will be processed directly to the buyers’ accounts.
The 10th edition of the PSL is currently in its final phase, with only eight matches remaining—four in the league stage, three playoffs, and the final. Quetta Gladiators have already secured a playoff spot with 13 points from six wins in nine matches. Karachi Kings (10 points from 8 matches) and Islamabad United (10 points from 9 matches) are currently in second and third positions. The next three teams are Lahore Qalandars (9 points), Peshawar Zalmi (8 points), and Multan Sultans (2 points).
According to ESPNcricinfo, many foreign players have already departed for the UAE, where the remaining matches are set to take place soon. Initially, four matches were scheduled in Rawalpindi, one in Multan, and three—including the final—in Lahore. Following the drone strike incidents, the PCB has decided to move all matches away from Rawalpindi and Lahore.
