After a tense interruption caused by regional military escalation, the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 is all set to resume. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has released a revised schedule for the remaining eight matches, which will restart on May 17 and end with the final on May 25 at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
Why PSL Was Postponed
On May 8, a drone attack near the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium—just before the scheduled match between Islamabad United and Peshawar Zalmi—forced the immediate suspension of the tournament. This incident came amidst heightened military tension between Pakistan and India, leading to the withdrawal of all 37 foreign players via chartered flights.
The New Schedule
With a ceasefire now in place, the PCB has decided to move forward. Four group-stage matches will be played in Rawalpindi, while the playoffs and final will be hosted in Lahore. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed the new timeline on social media platform X, stating, “The HBL PSL X will resume on May 17, with the final on May 25. The league will continue with six teams competing fearlessly.”
Key Fixtures:
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May 17: Peshawar Zalmi vs Karachi Kings
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May 18: Quetta Gladiators vs Multan Sultans, followed by Lahore Qalandars vs Peshawar Zalmi
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May 19: Islamabad United vs Karachi Kings
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Playoffs: May 21 to May 25 in Lahore
The playoff picture is heating up. Karachi Kings need just one more win to seal their spot. Quetta Gladiators already sit on top with 13 points. Meanwhile, Lahore Qalandars, Islamabad United, and Peshawar Zalmi are still battling it out. Multan Sultans, however, have a slim chance of survival.
International Player Status
Franchises are negotiating the return of foreign players. Karachi Kings’ captain David Warner has confirmed his return. However, eight New Zealand players, including former captain Kane Williamson, remain uncertain despite PCB’s strengthened security measures.
Impact on Bangladesh Tour
The PSL final, now set for May 25, clashes with Bangladesh’s first T20 match in Faisalabad. As a result, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is coordinating with the PCB to reschedule their upcoming five-match T20I series.
Similar Disruption in IPL
Interestingly, the Indian Premier League (IPL), which also faced delays due to the same cross-border conflict, is now scheduled to resume on May 17 as well.
