The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has dropped a bombshell. They’ve opted to delay indefinitely the much-aspired Pakistan Super League (PSL) Twenty20 cricket tournament. Recent violence in Kashmir and an Indian airstrike into Pakistan have escalated fears of an all out confrontation between the nuclear powers. To that end, this past decision has been taken.
The delay comes in the wake of multiple events that have further escalated the complicated and tense relationship between the two countries. Noteworthy among these was an attack that killed 26 civilians in Indian-administered Kashmir in April. In fact, Pakistan was the first to claim that the airstrikes inflicted 31 civilian deaths on India. As a result, tensions are continuing to build in the region. On May 8, 2025, when a drone strike—allegedly Indian forces, of course—wiped out Rawalpindi literally outside the cricket stadium as a PSL match was about to begin.
In response to these changes, PCB officials took an audacious step. They canceled their plans to move the tournament to the United Arab Emirates. Given the intense security fears due to the current war, significant discussions have been made regarding the safety of athletes and fans. Rawalpindi, Multan, and Lahore had been initially selected to hold the remaining PSL matches. This series will feature the best international cricketers from New Zealand, Australia, the West Indies, South Africa and England.
The Quetta Gladiators are riding high atop the points table and have already stamped their ticket to the playoff stage. On the other hand, the Multan Sultans, captained by Mohammad Rizwan, were knocked out after just nine matches, losing eight of them.
In a statement regarding the incident, the PCB reiterated its prioritization of player safety and well-being.
“Cricket, while being a unifying force and a source of joy, must take a respectful pause,” – PCB statement.
The board transmitted their heartfelt concern for the mental health of all players involved. Perhaps more importantly, they acknowledged the fear expressed by international players and their families.
“We have sincere regard for the mental well-being of participating players and the sentiments of our foreign players, and we respect the concerns of their families who want to see them back home,” – PCB statement.
Pakistan military has claimed that Indian drone attacks responsibility the tragic death one civilians. At least four other soldiers were wounded at multiple attacks throughout Pakistan as well. These advances reinforce both the gravity of the status quo and the reasoning for delaying the league.
