After the tension between India and Pakistan, the question was whether the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 would be cancelled. The Pakistan Cricket Board announced that it will host the remaining PSL matches in the United Arab Emirates.
A total of eight matches were remaining in this edition of the Pakistan Super League. Rawalpindi and Lahore were planned to host the remaining group stages and play-off matches. A drone hit Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium just before the game between Karachi Kings and Peshawar Zalmi. Officials called off the match.
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PSL 2025 Cancelled?
On May 9, the PCB announced that it would move the remaining matches of PSL 2025 to the UAE due to security concerns. Eventually, this decision impacted the final aspects of the tournament, changing the schedule of the playoffs and final, which were originally set to take place in Pakistan.
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Tensions with India Spark Major Disruption
The implications of the April 22 Pahalgam incident in Indian Kashmir, for which India claims Pakistan is responsible, have become rapidly more serious. In retaliation, India launched airstrikes into Pakistan, and Pakistan subsequently announced it shot down 25 Indian drones.
This latest escalation of conflict has created security concerns in both nations. Consequently, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) shifted PSL matches to be played in the United Arab Emirates. Some foreign players, many from England, are reporting that they are perhaps taking a second look at playing due to the unrest.
Financial Losses After PSL Cancellation: Franchises, Sponsors & PCB Hit Hard
The cancellation of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) meant major financial losses for a number of sectors. Franchises lost revenue from tickets, merchandise, and local sponsorships, impacting their financials. In other sectors, broadcasters suffered, losing advertising and viewership-related income from television networks and digital streaming platforms.
Major sponsors expressed disappointment with the level of exposure, withholding deals, or requesting reimbursement. Hotels, restaurants, and other travel-related businesses in the clubs’ host cities canceled bookings and expenditures, affecting the hospitality and tourism sectors. The PCB lost considerable income as well from disrupted broadcasting rights, sponsorship rights, and stadium income.
