In a significant development for cricket fans and players alike, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced on Friday, May 9, 2025, that the remaining matches of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) have been shifted to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) due to escalating tensions in the region. This decision comes in light of ongoing military confrontations with India, which have raised serious security concerns for both local and international players.
The PCB confirmed that all eight remaining fixtures, including the playoffs and the final, which were originally scheduled to take place in Rawalpindi, Multan, and Lahore, will now be held in the UAE. "The PCB confirms that the remaining fixtures of the HBL PSL X have been shifted to the UAE," stated the board in a media release. They assured fans that the exact schedule of matches, outlining the dates and venues, will be shared in due course.
This announcement follows a series of military strikes by Indian forces targeting terror infrastructure within Pakistan, a response to the tragic April 22 attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists. The situation has left foreign players competing in the PSL anxious, with reports indicating that some English players were considering leaving the tournament due to safety concerns.
On Thursday, May 8, the PCB had already taken precautionary measures by rescheduling the match between Karachi Kings and Peshawar Zalmi, which was to be held in Rawalpindi. The PCB emphasized that the safety of all stakeholders involved was their top priority. Ticket holders for the rescheduled match have been assured of refunds, with VIP Gallery and enclosure ticket holders able to collect their refunds from designated TCS Express Centres, while online purchasers will receive automatic refunds.
As the PSL 10 enters its final stages, only four league-stage matches and four playoff fixtures remain. The standings have seen Quetta Gladiators leading the points table with six wins, two losses, and one no-result from nine matches, securing their spot in the playoffs. Karachi Kings are in second place with 10 points, having achieved five wins and three losses across eight matches. Defending champions Islamabad United are also in contention for the playoffs, sitting in third position with an equal number of points but more losses. Lahore Qalandars are currently fourth with nine points, while Peshawar Zalmi holds fifth place with eight points. Unfortunately, Multan Sultans have been eliminated from playoff contention, managing only one win out of their nine matches.
PCB Chair Mohsin Naqvi expressed his disappointment regarding the situation, stating, "I regret that our domestic audience and cricket lovers will not be able to watch these matches in Pakistan's stadiums." He emphasized the PCB's commitment to separating politics from sports but acknowledged the necessity of the decision for the safety of players amidst the current geopolitical climate. Naqvi further stated, "As a responsible organization that has overcome adversities repeatedly and ensured that the game of cricket flourishes, it was important for us to ensure the mental well-being of all players participating in the HBL PSL."
Looking ahead, the following fixtures have been rescheduled to the UAE: Karachi Kings vs. Peshawar Zalmi, Peshawar Zalmi vs. Lahore Qalandars, Islamabad United vs. Karachi Kings, Multan Sultans vs. Quetta Gladiators, as well as the Qualifier, Eliminator 1, Eliminator 2, and the Final. Fans are eagerly awaiting the official announcement of the new schedule, with hopes of seeing their favorite teams compete in a safe environment.
Despite the challenges posed by the current circumstances, the PCB remains optimistic about the future of the PSL and is dedicated to ensuring that the tournament continues to thrive. The board’s proactive measures reflect a commitment to the sport and its supporters, even in the face of adversity.
