The Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025, which faced an abrupt pause due to heightened cross-border tensions between Pakistan and India, is officially back on track. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi announced that the remaining eight matches will resume on May 17, with the final slated for May 25 in Rawalpindi.
This development comes after the league was moved to the UAE and later postponed following an alarming incidentāan Indian drone crashed near the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium just as tensions between the neighboring countries escalated.
āLet the Aura Take Overā
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Chairman Naqvi shared the update, stating that PSL will continue from where it was left off. He added, āLet the aura take over as we unite and celebrate the spirit of cricket,ā encouraging fans to gear up for an exciting conclusion to the tournament.
The announcement has been met with optimism, not only from fans but also from franchise officials and stakeholders who have been working behind the scenes to resume the event safely and smoothly.
Foreign Players May Return
The decision to resume PSL was not made in isolation. According to sources, all six franchises have begun contacting their foreign players, who were flown out over the weekend due to the rising hostilities. These discussions are centered around confirming their availability now that a ceasefire agreement has been reached between the two nations.
Rawalpindi remains the proposed venue for the remaining fixtures. Once the franchises receive confirmation from their players, the final match schedule will be released, subject to approval from Chairman Naqvi.
The PCB remains hopeful that the absence of international cricket during this window, combined with improved security conditions, will allow most players to return and see the tournament through to its conclusion.
Uncertainty Around Australian Players
While efforts are ongoing to bring back international players, concerns remain regarding the return of Australian cricketers. Reports suggest that many of them are hesitant to return to either Pakistan or India, both of which saw disruptions to their T20 tournaments due to the recent conflict.
The Indian Premier League (IPL) was also suspended as part of the broader safety measures in the region. While most Australian players chose to return home, there have been signs of flexibility from some. Notably, former cricketer Ricky Ponting, who now coaches the Punjab Kings in the IPL, reportedly deboarded his flight back to Australia following news of the ceasefire.
A Crucial Window for Pakistan Cricket
The resumption of PSL is not just about completing a cricket tournamentāit symbolizes a return to normalcy and resilience in the face of adversity. The PCBās swift actions, along with franchise cooperation, underline the importance of maintaining cricketing momentum even during complex geopolitical scenarios.
As cricket lovers in Pakistan await the return of live action, the coming days will be critical in shaping how the league finishes. With foreign stars potentially back on board and fans ready to fill the stadiums, PSL 2025 could still deliver a thrilling finish.
