The ongoing political conflict between India and Pakistan has now led to the indefinite suspension of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Following the postponement of a match on Thursday, organisers initially decided to relocate the remainder of the tournament to the United Arab Emirates. However, on Friday night, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) issued a press release announcing that the remaining eight matches of the PSL would not be played. The suspension is not temporary—it will continue for an indefinite period.
This development follows the earlier announcement of a one-week suspension of India’s franchise cricket league, the IPL, due to rising political tensions between the two nations.
In the official statement, the PCB said:
“Over the past 24 hours, the situation along the Line of Control has deteriorated significantly. Seventy-eight drones have crossed the border from India, and surface-to-surface missiles have also been launched.”
The statement continued: “This decision has been taken on the advice of Prime Minister Mohammad Shehbaz Sharif. India’s reckless aggression has reached a level where the entire nation’s focus and emotions are now directed toward our brave armed forces, who are fearlessly defending Pakistan’s sovereignty. The PCB and its players express their unwavering solidarity with the families of the martyrs and the security personnel protecting the country.”
The PCB expressed gratitude to all stakeholders involved in the PSL, including partners, franchises, players, broadcasters, sponsors, and organisers. It also conveyed hope that sports will soon bring smiles back to people’s faces. The board affirmed its commitment to safely returning all foreign players to their respective countries.
From Bangladesh, players Nahid Rana and Rishad Hossain were participating in the PSL, and two Bangladeshi sports journalists covered their matches. All four are scheduled to return home today via Dubai.
