PCB Decides to Hold PSL 11 in Karachi and Lahore Without Spectators, Opening Ceremony Cancelled

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board has announced that the upcoming Pakistan Super League 11 will be held only in Karachi and Lahore without spectators, while the opening ceremony has also been cancelled.

Speaking at a press conference at Gaddafi Stadium, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed that the tournament will begin as scheduled on March 26. However, due to austerity measures and the prevailing regional situation, matches will be limited to two venues and played behind closed doors.

He apologized to fans for the inconvenience and assured that all ticket holders would receive refunds. Naqvi added that a revised schedule would be issued soon, focusing on minimizing player travel during the tournament.

The PCB chairman emphasized that holding the PSL remains essential, and the board will compensate franchises for gate revenue losses. He also noted that international players are expected to start arriving within the next couple of days.

Naqvi further stated that spectators will not be allowed in stadiums as long as the current crisis continues, but fans may be permitted if conditions improve. He acknowledged uncertainty regarding the duration of the ongoing regional tensions and highlighted that government subsidies have helped prevent further increases in fuel prices.