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

PSL 2026 will be held across 2 venues without crowds due to security concerns, with PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi apologising after talks with PM Shehbaz Sharif.

The Pakistan Super League 2026 will take place in 2 venues, Karachi and Lahore. The Pakistan Cricket Board revised its plans due to ongoing challenges in the country. Initial matches will proceed without crowds to ensure safety. Chairman Mohsin Naqvi apologised to fans for the disruption

Pakistan currently faces a petroleum crisis linked to the West Asia conflict. The country also deals with tensions involving neighbouring Afghanistan. Despite these issues, the league will begin on March 26 as scheduled.

“Consultations regarding the PSL had been ongoing for several days. We don’t know how long the current situation will persist, but hosting the PSL is essential. It is an international brand, and foreign players are involved. Everyone is eager for the PSL to go ahead,” Naqvi said at a press conference.

“If we had postponed the PSL, there would be no window later to hold it. We have prepared a new schedule that minimises team movements,” he added.

Earlier, organisers planned matches across 6 cities, including Multan, Peshawar, Faisalabad, Karachi, Rawalpindi and Lahore. Officials reduced venues after discussions with franchise owners and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

PSL 2026 Opening Ceremony Cancelled

The PSL 2026 opening ceremony has also been cancelled due to the current situation. Officials confirmed that fans will receive full refunds for tickets. Full-time PCB staff will not attend matches, while part-time staff will assist teams.

“Fans will be able to receive refunds for tickets, and we apologise to them for the inconvenience. Full-time PCB staff will not be able to attend the PSL, but part-time staff will be able to work with the teams,” Naqvi said.

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Notably, Pakistan remains in conflict with Afghanistan after the escalation in late February. Both sides agreed to a 5-day ceasefire on March 18 during Eid al-Fitr. However, tensions continue at a high level. Concerns over player safety have increased among overseas cricketers. Some players have already withdrawn, citing personal reasons. The updated conditions may impact further participation.