PSL 9 May Be Held in UAE or South Africa Due to General Elections

The ninth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL 9) scheduled for 2024 might shift to the UAE or South Africa if the PCB fails to obtain government clearance for hosting the event in February-March, coinciding with general elections.

Following a meeting of the PSL general council, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced on Tuesday that it would seek formal advice from the government regarding the finalization of PSL-9 dates, considering the general elections are set for February 8.

Typically, the PSL takes place annually between February 19-20 and March 20-21.

There’s speculation within the PCB that some officials and franchise owners prefer holding the PSL in the UAE or South Africa next year to avoid potential disruptions in the match schedule. The argument echoes the BCCI’s decision to organize the IPL in South Africa and the UAE during emergency situations, such as elections in India.

The initial PSL editions were held in the UAE due to teams’ reluctance to play in Pakistan over security concerns. However, since 2021, the PSL has taken place entirely in Pakistan, even amid the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.

A reliable source revealed a divided opinion on whether the PSL should be held in Pakistan or abroad. While some franchises and board officials advocate for hosting it in the UAE, others resist the move, citing potential impacts on the PCB’s profits.

The PCB also mentioned that franchises urged the board to expedite the process of selling media and other rights for the PSL.

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