PSL 2025 shifted to Dubai amid Pakistan-India tensions
BCCI relocates IPL fixture from Dharamsala to Ahmedabad suddenly
DUBAI: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that the remaining eight matches of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 10 will now take place in Dubai, citing security concerns amidst rising tensions with India.
A high-level meeting was held late on Thursday involving PCB officials, government representatives, PSL franchise owners, and foreign stakeholders. After extensive consultations, the decision to relocate the rest of the tournament to the United Arab Emirates was finalised in the early hours of Friday morning.
“The PCB confirms that the remaining fixtures of the HBL PSL X have been shifted to the UAE,” read the official statement. The exact dates and venues for the rescheduled matches — including the final – will be announced soon.
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— PakistanSuperLeague (@thePSLt20) May 8, 2025
The exact schedule will be shared in due course ????
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What happened?
The dramatic decision came hours after the scheduled match between Peshawar Zalmi and Karachi Kings was abruptly called off at the Pindi Cricket Stadium. The cancellation followed reports that one of nearly two dozen Indian drones – reportedly taken down by Pakistani forces – crashed within the stadium complex, causing minor structural damage.
This incident prompted immediate security reviews and raised concerns over the safety of players, staff, and spectators. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as the country’s interior minister, addressed the issue directly. He stated that moving the tournament was essential “to save both domestic and foreign cricketers" and “to ensure the mental well-being of all players.”
Foreign players’ safety
PCB spokesperson Amir Mir confirmed that the board had been actively monitoring the situation and was prioritising player security.
Reports suggest that hosting the matches in Rawalpindi only, or postponing the event altogether, were briefly considered. However, the unavailability of several overseas players due to existing national and league commitments made that option impractical.
BBC Sport had also reported that a postponement was on the table, but the final consensus leaned towards immediate relocation to preserve the integrity of the tournament.
PSL 2025 in Dubai
The fixtures to be moved include four league-stage games – Karachi Kings vs Peshawar Zalmi, Peshawar Zalmi vs Lahore Qalandars, Islamabad United vs Karachi Kings, and Multan Sultans vs Quetta Gladiators – as well as the Qualifier, Eliminator 1, Eliminator 2, and the Final. Originally, these were scheduled across Rawalpindi, Multan, and Lahore.
According to PCB insiders, the board is now working with Emirates Cricket Board and Dubai Sports City to finalise stadium bookings, player accommodations, and logistics. Ticketing policies for Dubai-based matches and fan access are expected to be detailed shortly.
Players in transit
Foreign boards are now actively coordinating to ensure the safety of their cricketers participating in the PSL. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) stated it is arranging for the secure return of Nahid Rana and Rishad Hossain, who are part of the Peshawar Zalmi and Lahore Qalandars squads respectively. “We are in active coordination with the PCB and our High Commission in Islamabad,” the BCB said.
The Professional Cricketers’ Association (PCA) in England also noted it was in constant touch with its 15-member PSL contingent. While some players were reportedly considering early exits, others expressed willingness to continue.
IPL disruptions
Meanwhile, across the border, the Indian Premier League (IPL) has also felt the ripple effects of the regional crisis. Thursday night’s clash between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala was stopped midway due to what the BCCI cited as a “floodlight malfunction.” However, the timing of the issue raised eyebrows given the escalating political context.
Adding to the speculation, the BCCI swiftly announced that Sunday’s fixture between Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians, initially set to be held in Dharamsala, would instead take place in Ahmedabad.
What’s the cost?
For fans and stakeholders, the financial implications of this shift are significant. Costs for venue rentals, logistics, and player accommodations in the UAE are considerably higher, with estimates ranging in the millions of Dh. PCB is reportedly in talks with sponsors and broadcasters to cover these unexpected expenses.
Cricket West Indies (CWI) and the West Indies Players’ Association (WIPA) also confirmed their involvement in coordinating safety plans for their players in both PSL and IPL. “Our priority is the safety and mental well-being of our players and staff,” said a joint statement.