Sports: In a significant development against the backdrop of escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) today announced the relocation of the remaining Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season X fixtures to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The decision comes amidst what the PCB has described as a “war-like situation” between the two neighboring nations.
The PCB confirmed that the final eight matches of the popular T20 league, originally slated to be held in Rawalpindi, Multan, and Lahore, will now take place in the UAE. This abrupt change in venue is a direct consequence of the prevailing geopolitical climate and, specifically, an incident cited by the PCB involving the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
PCB Chair Mohsin Naqvi conveyed his disappointment that Pakistani cricket enthusiasts would be unable to witness the matches live in their home stadiums. However, he stated the decision was made with the safety and well-being of all participating players, both domestic and international, as the paramount concern.
Mr. Naqvi explicitly pointed to what he termed an “extremely irresponsible and dangerous Indian act of targeting the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium” as the catalyst for this decision. He asserted that this alleged action was a deliberate attempt to disrupt the ongoing PSL. Emphasizing the PCB’s commitment to separating politics and sports, he stressed the necessity of safeguarding the players from potential reckless targeting.
The PCB Chair further elaborated on the organization’s responsibility to ensure the mental well-being of all individuals involved in the HBL PSL, highlighting the board’s track record of overcoming challenges to promote the sport. He expressed hope for the continued support of stakeholders in prioritizing the best interests of the tournament, the players, and the fans, reaffirming the commitment to the league’s success.
The affected PSL fixtures that will be rescheduled in the UAE include the matches between Karachi Kings and Peshawar Zalmi, Peshawar Zalmi and Lahore Qalandars, Islamabad United and Karachi Kings, and Multan Sultans against Quetta Gladiators. Additionally, the Qualifier, Eliminator 1, Eliminator 2, and the Final will also be moved. The PCB has assured that the revised schedule, detailing the specific dates and venues for these matches in the UAE, will be announced in the near future.
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