Franchises worried over delay as PCB prepares two proposed schedules for PSL 9

The PCB intends to kick off the PSL 9 season in Lahore on February 18, with the proposed final scheduled to take place in Karachi on March 19

PHOTO: PCB

The PSL franchises have expressed growing concern as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) deliberates over two proposed schedules, with venues yet to be finalized for the upcoming ninth edition.

The primary cause of the delay stems from the looming general elections in the country, prompting a proposal to relocate the competition to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). However, no definitive decision has been reached in this regard.

The PCB favors collaborative decision-making with franchises rather than unilateral choices. In this context, a letter has been sent to the government seeking guidance on the matter.

Sources reveal that two proposed schedules have been crafted, both contemplating matches in Pakistan. The first proposal outlines matches across four venues: Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi.

Meanwhile, the second proposal restricts initial matches to Lahore and Karachi. The proposed schedules have been shared with the concerned franchises as of now.

Javed Afridi, the owner of Zalmi, has expressed his desire for Peshawar to host several matches in the upcoming PSL 9. He has formally communicated this aspiration to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) by sending an email outlining his proposal. In his correspondence, Afridi advocates for the inclusion of Peshawar as one of the host cities for PSL 9, emphasizing the city's enthusiasm for cricket and the potential to engage local fans.

Finalizing the dates and venues of the matches is crucial for completing broadcast and production deals.

The mega-event tournament is expected to commence from February 18th in Lahore, with plans to host the final in Karachi on March 19th. A decision regarding this matter is expected imminently.

Insiders also suggest that foreign cricketers are advocating for PSL matches in the UAE. However, franchise owners are yet to reach a consensus on this matter, with some in favor of matches in Pakistan, while others lean towards the UAE as a more secure option.