Pakistan: PCB Threatens Legal Action As International Stars Leave PSL To Join IPL

Lahore: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi on Sunday threatened to take legal action against international players who are withdrawing their names from the Pakistan Super League (PSL) just before the commencement of its upcoming season. Several foreign players who were part of the Pakistan Super League have decided to withdraw from the league this month, subsequently joining the IPL just days after leaving the PSL.

On Sunday, Sri Lankan T20 captain Dasun Shanaka joined the IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals, prompting Naqvi to break his silence on the matter. Shanaka, from Sri Lanka, had gone unsold in the IPL auction, following which he had signed with the Lahore Qalandars in the PSL.

What did the PCB say?

The Pakistan Cricket Board stated on Sunday that, in light of regional tensions stemming from the conflict involving Iran, the US, and Israel, the initial phase of the Pakistan Super League will be played without spectators. This year, Dasun Shanaka has become the second foreign player to leave the Pakistan Super League to join the IPL. Prior to this, Zimbabwean fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani had joined the Kolkata Knight Riders.

Blessing was scheduled to play for Islamabad United in the Pakistan League. Last year, the Pakistan Cricket Board initiated legal proceedings against South African fast bowler Corbin Bosch after he withdrew from his PSL contract at the last minute to join the Mumbai Indians.

What setps wil the PCB take?

On Sunday, Naqvi also stated that the PCB's legal department is reviewing the cases of those cricketers who cancelled their PSL contracts in order to play in the IPL. However, he also clarified that the PSL would not suffer any detriment whatsoever due to the clash with the IPL. Players such as Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, and Glenn Maxwell are set to be part of the Pakistan Super League.

Pakistan Cricket Board chief Mohsin Naqvi announced that this season of the PSL will be played exclusively in Karachi and Lahore. Speaking at a press conference, he remarked, "The PSL is an international brand and our pride." "This league will commence on March 26, but spectators will not be permitted." PSL CEO Salman Naseer dismissed any security concerns regarding the hosting of the PSL in Pakistan.