ISLAMABAD, Friday, May 09, 2025 (WNP): The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Friday announced that the remaining matches of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 10 have been moved to the United Arab Emirates due to escalating security threats stemming from recent Indian military actions.

In an official statement, the PCB confirmed that four league matches — Karachi Kings vs Peshawar Zalmi, Peshawar Zalmi vs Lahore Qalandars, Islamabad United vs Karachi Kings, and Multan Sultans vs Quetta Gladiators — along with all playoff fixtures including the Qualifier, Eliminator 1, Eliminator 2, and the Final will now be played in the UAE. The revised schedule, including match dates and venues, will be released in due course.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi attributed the decision to what he described as “an extremely irresponsible and dangerous Indian act” aimed at targeting the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. “This hostile move appeared intended to disrupt the PSL,” Naqvi said. “We cannot allow our players — both local and international — to be exposed to such threats.”

He reiterated the Board’s long-standing position that politics and sports must remain separate, but said the security of players and the integrity of the tournament could not be compromised.

“The safety of our players and guests remains our top priority. As a responsible organisation, we’ve made this decision in consultation with the government, including Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif,” Naqvi stated.

The PCB revealed that the decision followed the reported incursion of 78 drones and the firing of surface-to-surface missiles from India, incidents that significantly heightened tensions along the Line of Control (LoC). The Board noted that the nation’s focus was rightly on the armed forces, who are “valiantly defending Pakistan’s sovereignty.”

In a show of national solidarity, the PCB expressed deep respect for the martyrs and the ongoing sacrifices of Pakistan’s security personnel. “At a time when our armed forces are engaged in defending the homeland against unprovoked aggression, cricket must respectfully take a back seat,” the statement added.

The PCB also acknowledged the concerns raised by franchise owners, sponsors, broadcasters, and fans, as well as the families of foreign players, saying it fully understands the anxiety under the current circumstances.

Naqvi urged fans and stakeholders to continue supporting the league despite the relocation. “We’ve overcome adversity before, and with unity and resolve, we will ensure that PSL continues to thrive,” he said.

Further updates on the tournament’s schedule will be issued once arrangements in the UAE are finalized.