Following the easing of tensions between India and Pakistan, both the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Pakistan Super League (PSL) are set to resume on May 17. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed the PSL’s restart on X (formerly Twitter), announcing that the remaining matches will begin on May 17, with the final scheduled for May 25.
However, the venue for the remaining eight matches remains unclear. The PCB held discussions with franchise owners on Monday to finalize dates and locations, but a major concern is the availability of foreign players. Many overseas cricketers are unlikely to return, forcing franchises to consider replacements. Some teams are optimistic about retaining their international stars, while others may have to rely on a replacement draft though securing high-quality players on short notice could be challenging.
The PSL faced significant uncertainty amid rising India-Pakistan tensions. Initially, the PCB considered moving matches to Karachi due to security concerns around Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Later, they announced a shift to the UAE, only to postpone the league indefinitely coinciding with the IPL’s suspension.
Meanwhile, the PSL’s resumption may disrupt Pakistan’s upcoming T20 series against Bangladesh, set to begin on May 25. Bangladesh was scheduled to arrive on May 21, with the first two matches in Faisalabad and the remaining three in Lahore. If the PSL concludes as planned, adjustments to the bilateral series will be necessary.
With both leagues back on track, cricket fans can look forward to an action-packed finish to the season though player availability and scheduling remain key challenges.