Pakistan Super League to begin March 26 with reduced venues, legal warning issued to players
March 22, 2026: The Pakistan Super League will go ahead as scheduled on March 26 despite ongoing challenges, Pakistan Cricket Board chief Mohsin Naqvi confirmed. Speaking in Lahore, Naqvi stressed that maintaining the league’s credibility was crucial, adding that there was no available window to reschedule the tournament. A revised schedule will be announced soon, with matches now limited to just Lahore and Karachi, while venues like Peshawar, Multan, Rawalpindi, and Faisalabad have been dropped to conserve fuel amid government restrictions.
Naqvi also apologised to fans in Peshawar, who were set to host PSL matches for the first time, expressing hope they would get opportunities in future editions. In a cost-cutting move, the opening ceremony has been cancelled. Despite earlier concerns about travel disruptions, especially for foreign players passing through the Gulf region, Naqvi said most international cricketers are expected to arrive soon to join their squads.
Taking a firm stance, Naqvi warned of legal action against players who fail to honour PSL contracts or choose to join the Indian Premier League instead. The issue gained attention after players like Blessing Muzarabani and Dasun Shanaka opted for IPL opportunities. To offset losses from reduced attendance, Naqvi also announced financial compensation for franchises affected by the absence of crowds.