The Pakistan Cricket Board said on Wednesday that the Pakistan Super League will begin on March 26 but will be played entirely behind closed doors, with matches restricted to Lahore and Karachi.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi said the decision was taken due to logistical constraints and security considerations, adding that the tournament’s opening ceremony has been cancelled.
The board has withdrawn hosting rights from other cities, including Faisalabad and Peshawar, as part of efforts to limit travel and streamline operations.
Government Consultations and Financial Measures
Naqvi said the decision followed consultations with the federal government, including the prime minister, as well as state security agencies.
To offset financial losses resulting from the absence of spectators, the PCB will compensate franchises for lost gate revenues. Fans who purchased tickets will receive full refunds, the board said.
Franchises Involved, Revised Schedule Planned
PSL Chief Executive Salman Naseer said franchises were consulted throughout the process and agreed to the revised arrangements.
Organisers expect strong television and digital viewership despite the restrictions. Foreign players are expected to begin arriving shortly, while a revised match schedule will be issued to reduce travel between venues.
The PCB also said it has initiated legal proceedings against players who withdrew from the tournament despite having binding contractual commitments.
