The Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 has been put on hold indefinitely, with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) attributing the decision to escalating tensions at the India-Pakistan border. As per the board’s statement, they sought guidance from Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Shahbaz Sharif, and prioritised the “mental well-being of participating players and the sentiments of our foreign players”, factoring in family concerns over safety.
This decision follows just a day after the PCB had announced plans to continue the remaining eight matches in the UAE, though they did not specify exact dates or venues. Initially, arrangements had been in place for overseas and Pakistani players with valid UAE visas to depart on Friday evening, with additional visas intended to be processed over the weekend. However, the situation changed, and teams are now dispersing as arrangements are made for foreign players to return home.
It is still unclear if or when the remaining fixtures will be rescheduled. The postponement closely followed the temporary suspension of the Indian Premier League (IPL) due to the same regional tensions.
An emergency meeting took place in Islamabad on Thursday, which included discussions between PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi and foreign players. The players predominantly supported relocating the league to the UAE.
“The PCB recognises the efforts and support of its partners, franchises, participating players, broadcasters, sponsors, and organisers in having ensured the smooth conduct of the tournament thus far, however; cricket while being a unifying force and a source of joy, must take a respectful pause…” the PCB conveyed in their statement.
Danyal Rasool reports for ESPNcricinfo as their Pakistan correspondent.
