PSL Matches Relocated to UAE Amid India-Pakistan Tensions
In light of escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a significant decision regarding the Pakistan Super League (PSL). The remaining eight matches of the tournament will be relocated from Pakistan to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the board revealed on Friday.
PCB officials stated that the decision to shift the league to the UAE was made in response to recent security concerns, including an incident involving drones near Rawalpindi Stadium. According to the PCB, the safety of players was the primary reason behind this move. The decision was taken after multiple discussions involving franchise owners, PCB Chairman, and Pakistan’s Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.
On Thursday morning, Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar disclosed that the country’s military had intercepted 28 Indian drones near Rawalpindi, including one found close to the stadium. He alleged that the drones were part of a "deliberate attempt to target domestic and foreign cricket players."
The match scheduled on Thursday between Karachi Kings and Peshawar Zalmi at Rawalpindi Stadium was postponed due to the discovery of a drone near the venue.
The ongoing PSL includes participation from 37 foreign players representing Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, West Indies, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan. Highlighting their safety concerns, the PCB confirmed that the league will now proceed in the UAE.