Kamal Ghorui
The Pakistan Super League (PSL) began on Thursday with limited activity around the tournament, as Lahore Qalandars defeated Hyderabad Kingsmen by 69 runs at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The match was played without spectators after the Pakistan government introduced fuel-saving measures amid concerns over supplies due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia. The PSL opening ceremony, scheduled for Thursday night, was also cancelled for the same reason.The situation has extended beyond empty stands, with uncertainty now surrounding player and commentator participation, putting the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), led by Mohsin Naqvi, under pressure.
Naqvi had earlier said the board is considering action against players who have exited the PSL for the IPL. “Yes, two to three players have also left. We are planning to take legal action on them,” he told reporters.Among those who switched leagues, Zimbabwe fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani joined Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as a replacement for Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman. Muzarabani had earlier been signed by PSL’s Islamabad United as a replacement for West Indies pacer Shamar Joseph but opted to move to the IPL.Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka is also set to join Rajasthan Royals as a replacement for the injured Sam Curran, after being part of Lahore Qalandars. Chennai Super Kings have signed Australian pacer Spencer Johnson as a replacement for Nathan Ellis. Johnson had previously signed with Quetta Gladiators for the PSL 2026 season.The movement is not limited to players. Former England cricketer Nick Knight, who was recently named in the PSL commentary panel, has now also been included in the IPL broadcast panel for Star Sports. IPL broadcaster Star Sports named Nick Knight as its commentator for English commentary in the IPL. However, there’s no confirmation on when he will join the IPL.
