Following India’s precision airstrikes under Operation Sindoor on May 7—targeting terrorist bases across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir—concerns emerged regarding the continuation of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), especially for the safety of foreign players involved. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially dismissed speculation about the PSL being cancelled or foreign players being asked to leave.
In a strong statement on Wednesday, the PCB assured fans that the PSL will proceed as scheduled, emphasizing that no foreign player has requested to leave and no instructions have been given for any withdrawals. Media officials from at least three of the six PSL franchises also confirmed that all foreign players are staying with their squads, and preparations for upcoming matches, including Islamabad United vs Quetta Gladiators in Rawalpindi, are ongoing without disruption.
The speculation intensified after reports surfaced on social media that players like David Warner and Kane Williamson could be withdrawn due to escalating geopolitical tensions. These reports have now been firmly denied by the PCB and franchise representatives.
The concern stemmed from India’s retaliation to the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives. In response, Indian forces conducted targeted missile strikes on May 7 against terror strongholds in Bahawalpur, Muridke, Kotli, and Muzaffarabad, including bases linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)—both of which are designated as terrorist organizations by India, the United Nations, and several other countries.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs affirmed the strikes were necessary to pre-empt and deter future terrorist attacks, while Pakistan’s foreign ministry responded by calling them an “unprovoked act of war,” claiming civilian casualties and airspace violations.
Despite the rising diplomatic tensions, the PCB remains firm in continuing PSL 2025 as planned and ensuring the safety and security of all players.
