The 11th edition of Pakistan Super League will begin without spectators as Middle East tensions and the resulting energy crisis now reach the cricket field.
The decision comes from the Pakistan government and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in response to the global fuel shortage triggered by the ongoing conflict between Iran, Israel, and the United States.
The 11th edition of the PSL, set to start on March 26, will not only be held without spectators but will also see a reduced schedule to save on travel and energy costs. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated that the move aligns with Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s directive to limit public movement given the country’s current situation.
To reduce fuel consumption, Faisalabad, Multan, Rawalpindi, and Peshawar have been removed from the list of host cities. This year’s tournament will take place exclusively in Lahore and Karachi. Even the grand opening ceremony scheduled for Thursday has been cancelled.
The war that began in the Middle East in late February has disrupted oil and gas shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, leading to a severe energy crisis across South Asian countries.
