The Pakistan Super League (PSL) season six has been postponed indefinitely. This decision comes against the backdrop of increased security concern given the deteriorating relations between India and Pakistan. The tournament was initially tentatively planned to continue in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Yet it was met with sudden cancellation right when players were en route to the Gulf state for the expected contest. This decision followed on the recommendations of Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) contacted the Emirates Cricket Board to host the deserted PSL games. Particularly as the UAE has hosted previous seasons of the league—including the most recent season in 2021—with great success. For over a decade, the UAE’s grounds have served as “home” venues for Pakistan’s national cricket teams. As the PCB made clear, worsening circumstances forced them to make the painful choice to cancel the tournament.
In a surprising turn of events, Pakistan’s military officials claimed Indian airstrikes penetrated Pakistani territory. Consequently, 31 people were killed and 57 more were injured across Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Just last month, an attack in Indian-administered Kashmir took the tragic lives of 26 unarmed soldiers. India blamed this deadly action on militants supported by Pakistan. These incidents led to increased security threat levels affecting all public events, which culminated in a decision to suspend the PSL.
Players had flown into the UAE on Friday expecting to restart the tournament, only to be left disappointed. The PCB noted, “The last 24 hours have seen a worsening of the situation,” indicating that ongoing hostilities created an untenable environment for hosting international cricket matches.
So, in that sense, the Emirates Cricket Board did not technically deny the PCB’s request. According to reports, they backed out of hosting the PSL due to security issues. The PCB acknowledged the gravity of the situation, stating, “Cricket, while being a unifying force and a source of joy, must take a respectful pause when the country is facing such callous opposition.”
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