The Pakistan Super League (PSL) will proceed without crowds. The decision comes amidst a fuel crisis resulting from the conflict involving the US and Israel’s war with Iran.
The eight-team PSL is scheduled to take place between 26 March and 3 May.
Matches Centralised in Lahore and Karachi
The US and Israel launched strikes on Iran on 28 February, triggering a response that has disrupted the Strait of Hormuz. This disruption has impacted the flow of oil and gas from the Gulf to Asian countries and the rest of the world.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated that the Prime Minister has requested restricted movements of people due to the fuel crisis. As a result, the PSL will continue as scheduled but without crowds.
All PSL matches will now take place in Lahore and Karachi.
Naqvi, who is also Pakistan’s interior minister, expressed hope that the league could be held with crowds depending on the resolution of the crisis in Iran.
Venues Missing Out
The decision to limit venues means Faisalabad, Multan, Rawalpindi and Peshawar will miss out on hosting matches.
Opening Ceremony Cancelled
The opening ceremony on Thursday has been cancelled.
Naqvi said the PCB would compensate the franchises for the loss of revenue.
Sri Lanka has already declared every Wednesday a holiday for public institutions to conserve fuel as the island nation tries to deal with possible shortages.
Lahore Qalandars won the 2025 PSL title.