The Pakistan Super League (PSL) has been indefinitely postponed after the United Arab Emirates (UAE) refused permission to host the remaining matches. The decision comes in the wake of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, leading to increased security concerns. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officially confirmed the postponement, stating that their request to shift the league to the UAE was declined by the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB).
Previously, reports suggested that the ECB was unlikely to grant approval for the PSL due to its strong ties with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), especially considering the geopolitical climate. The UAE has hosted major tournaments in the past, including the ICC T20 World Cup in 2021 and several editions of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2014, 2020, and 2021. It also served as the venue for India’s matches during the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. However, under the current strained India-Pakistan relations, the UAE appears unwilling to risk hosting PSL matches.
The escalating tension also prompted several foreign players involved in the PSL to begin returning to their home countries. Earlier, a drone attack had reportedly damaged the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, pushing PCB to explore alternate venues. With UAE’s denial, the PCB has been left with no immediate alternatives, forcing the indefinite suspension of the tournament.
