PSL 6: Franchises insist on holding remaining matches in March

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchises are keen on holding the remaining season six matches during the ongoing month of March. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), however, is reluctant to accept this proposal due to upcoming tour of South Africa.

According to sources, the PCB is finding it difficult to convince the franchises with regards to holding the remaining PSL matches later during the year. The franchises want PCB to reschedule to upcoming tour of South Africa and use that window for PSL, instead.

The franchises owners have also offered to book the hotel for PSL matches, talk directly to Cricket South Africa about rescheduling while also guaranteeing support from influential people in the country.

The franchises also believe that foreign players, who will participate in the Indian Premier League, will be travelling to India in the first week of April so it will be convenient for them to arrive slightly early and take part in the PSL matches as well.

The PCB, on the other hand, does not want to go down this road as it might lead to sour relationship with Cricket South Africa, while convincing the broadcasters, to change the schedule in such a short span of time, would also be an issue.

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When CSA was approached on the matter, they refused to comment on the rescheduling of the series. However, details about the Pakistan team’s quarantine in South Africa were shared.

“At this stage, there will be no crowds allowed for the Pakistan tour to South Africa. There will be periods of strict and semi-quarantine for 5 days. Teams will train as a team post day 5, before that, they will train in small groups,” said CSA Media Manager Sipokazi Sokanyile.   

Yesterday, the National Command Operation Centre (NCOC) also placed restrictions outdoor gatherings, considering the increase in Covid-19 cases, which also puts questions marks over the matches taking place in the near future.

The PCB still believes that September and November are the most viable options for the remaining matches. However, the franchises are concerned about players’ availability due to international commitments during that time of the year.