PSL 2026 Crisis: Players Ask for Pay Hikes Over Security Fears in Pakistan | Reports

PSL 2026 players reportedly demanded pay hikes beyond contracts due to rising security concerns, putting PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi under pressure.

The Pakistan Cricket Board is facing growing challenges ahead of PSL 2026. The tournament now features 2 new franchises, increasing operational pressure. Concerns over the West Asian conflict have added uncertainty. According to reports from PTI, officials are now dealing with demands from some players seeking pay hikes.

Meanwhile, several overseas players have withdrawn despite signed contracts. Many prefer the IPL, which starts on March 28. PSL begins in Lahore on Thursday and runs until May 3. Both leagues will overlap through April.

According to sources, the Pakistan board has not finalised action against contract breaches. Internal discussions include possible bans of 2 to 4 years. However, such steps may affect future player signings. Notably, the financial gaps between PSL and IPL remain significant. A similar case had occurred in 2025 when Corbin Bosch received a 1-year ban but still secured an IPL deal.

READ ALSO | PSL 2026 Scaled Down to 2 Venues, No Crowds Allowed; Mohsin Naqvi Apologises

“The PCB is right now totally focused on hosting the PSL on schedule and have not decided on any course of action against overseas players who have pulled out for so-called personal reasons or have openly breached their PSL contracts to go to the IPL,” the source was quoted as saying.

“But there is an argument that bans will only make it more difficult for the eight franchise owners to sign on notable overseas players for the coming editions of the PSL. The ban didn’t really impact him(Bosch),” they added.

Multiple International Stars Pull Out of PSL 2026

The list of players who withdrew from PSL 2026 includes Gudakesh Motie, Johnson Charles, Dasun Shanaka, Blessing Muzarabani, Spencer Johnson, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Ottneil Baartman, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Tymal Mills. The PCB is planning to raise contract issues with the ICC, aiming to create stricter rules for players after signings.

The board also confirmed matches will take place without crowds. The opening ceremony has been cancelled. Games will be held in 2 venues, Lahore and Karachi.