ISLAMABAD (PEN) : The Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 10 has been officially relocated to Dubai due to escalating tensions between Pakistan and India, with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) citing concerns for the safety of foreign players as the primary reason.
Safety Concerns Prompt Swift Relocation
Sources confirmed that all international players from participating teams are set to fly to Dubai via a special chartered flight scheduled for later today. The league is expected to resume within six days, though a revised schedule will be announced once all logistical arrangements are finalized.
The development follows the abrupt postponement of the match between Karachi Kings and Peshawar Zalmi, which was due to take place on Thursday. The PCB has stated that the fixture will be rescheduled in consultation with stakeholders.
PCB Chairman: “Safety Is Our Top Priority”
Addressing the decision, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi emphasized the organization’s stance on maintaining a clear divide between sports and political conflict. “The PCB has always stood by its principle of separating politics from sports,” Naqvi said.
Condemning recent security incidents, Naqvi pointed to the reported shooting down of an Indian drone near the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. “The Indian attack on Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium was an extremely irresponsible and dangerous act,” he stated. “This was clearly aimed at disrupting PSL 10.”
Commitment to the League and Players
Naqvi reaffirmed the PCB’s dedication to safeguarding the interests of players, adding: “The safety and well-being of both local and international players is our top priority. We shifted the matches to the UAE to shield them from potential Indian aggression. It is our duty to protect the physical safety and mental well-being of all players involved.”
Despite the challenges, Naqvi expressed confidence in the league’s continuity and growth. “The PCB has ensured the survival of cricket through every challenge and difficult time. We trust that all stakeholders will stand with us during this time,” he said. “We remain fully committed to making the league a success and promoting the development of cricket in Pakistan.”
The PCB will announce new dates and match venues in the coming days as preparations for the continuation of PSL 10 move forward in the UAE.
