The HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 will officially resume on May 17, with the grand final scheduled for May 25, following a week-long suspension caused by cross-border tensions with India.
The announcement was made by PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi on Tuesday after a ceasefire agreement between the two countries brought a welcome sense of calm. The situation had escalated earlier when an Indian drone crash near Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium led to the tournament’s abrupt pause in solidarity with Pakistan’s armed forces.
“Let the aura take over as we unite and celebrate the spirit of cricket,” wrote Naqvi in a post on X (formerly Twitter), confirming that the tournament would resume from where it left off.
Foreign Players Being Recalled
All six franchises are actively working to bring back overseas players who were evacuated through chartered flights last weekend. PCB sources indicate that all remaining eight matches — including the final — will be hosted in Rawalpindi, pending final approvals.
“Once franchises confirm the availability of foreign players, the PCB will release the full schedule,” a source close to the matter shared.
Optimism Amid Global Hesitation
While there’s no international cricket clash during the PSL window, ensuring broader player availability, some hesitation remains, particularly from Australian cricketers. The withdrawal of Australian players from the now-suspended IPL 2025 has heightened concerns.
Interestingly, Ricky Ponting, head coach of IPL’s Punjab Kings, reportedly cancelled his flight home after the ceasefire news — seen as a vote of confidence in the region’s improving security.
More Than Just Cricket
The return of PSL is more than just a sports story. It serves as a symbol of resilience and unity, reigniting hope in a region that has seen increased instability. Fans, players, and stakeholders now look forward to an exciting finish to what has been a thrilling season.