Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Friday announced the indefinite postponement of the remaining matches of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) X, citing escalating regional tensions and national security concerns.
Earlier in the day, the PCB had announced that the remaining eight fixtures of HBL PSL X would be held in the UAE. However, in light of the escalating situation with India, the league has now been indefinitely postponed, according to a PCB statement.
It said the decision came amid a surge in hostilities along the Line of Control (LoC), including the incursion of 77 Indian drones and the firing of surface-to-surface missiles, actions the board called “reckless aggression” from India.
Read more: Remaining HBL PSL X matches moved to UAE: PCB
The suspension of the final eight matches was made on the advice of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who emphasised that “national attention and sentiments are rightly focused on the courageous efforts of the Armed Forces of Pakistan who are vociferously upholding the sovereignty of our beloved Pakistan.”
“In such times, while cricket unites and brings joy, it must take a respectful pause,” the PCB said in its statement.
The board expressed solidarity with the families of security personnel and those who lost their lives, and extended gratitude to all HBL PSL stakeholders, including franchises, players, sponsors, broadcasters, and fans, for their understanding and continued support.
It also acknowledged the emotional toll on players, especially foreign cricketers, and said it respected the concerns of their families seeking their safe return.
