Did Pakistan PM's Advice Lead to Postponement of PSL 10 Matches?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- PCB's decision reflects national security priorities.
- Player safety is paramount amid rising tensions.
- Escalating conflict influenced the postponement.
- Concerns from foreign players were significant.
- Future of PSL remains uncertain due to the geopolitical situation.
Mumbai, May 9 (NationPress) In a surprising turn of events, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to postpone the remaining matches of the 10th edition of the Pakistan Super League indefinitely, just a day after announcing its relocation to Dubai due to escalating tensions with India.
The PCB issued a statement on Friday confirming the postponement of the last eight matches of the HBL PSL X.
This decision has been influenced by the recent surge in aerial attacks from India, and it comes on the advice of Pakistan's Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif.
“In the last 24 hours, we have witnessed a significant escalation along the Line of Control (LOC), including incursions of 78 drones and the launch of surface-to-surface missiles,” stated the PCB.
The board emphasized that the postponement was made in light of the current situation, which has shifted national focus towards the brave efforts of the Armed Forces of Pakistan in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty.
It is worth noting that India’s military actions have been in response to a terrorist attack in Pahalgam that resulted in 26 fatalities and targeted terrorist and military sites across the border.
“The PCB holds a deep concern for the mental well-being of all players involved, especially foreign participants, prioritizing their safety and the wishes of their families,” the statement added.
Initially, the PCB planned to move the remaining matches to Dubai after foreign players expressed their desire to leave Pakistan due to missile and drone threats, compounded by negative security advisories from their governments. One drone had even crashed near a food street adjacent to the Rawalpindi International Cricket Stadium, leading to the postponement of a match between Peshawar Zalmi and Karachi Kings on Thursday night.