Kane Williamson Unwilling To Return To Pakistan For PSL Amid Tensions: Report
As the Pakistan Super League (PSL) gears up for its restart, uncertainty clouds the return of international players — most notably, New Zealand’s veteran batter Kane Williamson, who is reportedly unwilling to travel back to Pakistan due to security concerns, according to local media reports.
The PSL’s 10th edition, which began on April 11 in Karachi, was abruptly interrupted following a drone strike near Rawalpindi Stadium on May 8, shortly before the match between Peshawar Zalmi and Karachi Kings. The incident forced a temporary postponement of the tournament, which was initially expected to shift to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for safety reasons.
Though the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has since confirmed the league will resume on May 17, the participation of several foreign players remains in doubt. Reports indicate that eight New Zealand players, including Williamson, are reluctant to return, despite PCB’s assurances regarding enhanced security protocols.
In contrast, former Australia opener David Warner has expressed his commitment to returning and completing the season with Karachi Kings, as confirmed in an interview with the Sydney Morning Herald.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi tried to instill confidence in players and fans alike, stating on X (formerly Twitter),
“The PSL 2025 will resume on May 17, with the final on May 25. The League will pick up from where it left off, six teams with zero fear.”
According to the PCB’s revised schedule:
- The remaining four league-stage matches will take place in Rawalpindi
- The playoffs and the final will be held at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
However, the absence of high-profile foreign players like Williamson could impact the tournament’s global appeal and competitive balance.
Tensions and Tournament Disruptions
The PSL’s suspension came in the wake of heightened India-Pakistan tensions, which also saw the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) briefly paused. With both countries reportedly agreeing to a ceasefire, both leagues are now set to resume around the same time — IPL from Saturday and PSL from May 17.
But while the IPL’s player pool remains unaffected, the PSL may face an exodus of overseas stars, weakening the remaining fixtures unless assurances are firmly accepted.
As the countdown to the PSL’s resumption begins, all eyes are on whether the PCB can convince hesitant players like Williamson to return and restore faith in the league’s security and management.
