PCB plans PSL Season Nine across four cities amidst franchise concerns

 PCB plans PSL Season Nine across four cities amidst franchise concerns

Asher Butt

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unveiled its decision to host the highly anticipated Pakistan Super League (PSL) season nine in four cities: Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi. The move aims to showcase the talents of over 450 overseas and local players, creating excitement among cricket enthusiasts.

Eearlier there were reports that the ninth segment of the PSL would be hosted either in the UAE or USA. But now the PCB has decided to host at four venues across Pakistan amidst pressure mounting from Peshawar Zalmi to add the provincial city as one of the venues.

The proposed schedule outlines that the first match is set to kick off on February 19 in Lahore. However, franchises have raised concerns about the cold weather and potential fog situations affecting team activities.

Peshawar Zalmi has been actively pushing for the inclusion of Peshawar as a venue. The franchise assures the completion of the stadium's remaining work within two months, emphasizing its readiness to host PSL matches.

Franchises also expressed reservations about hosting the final in Karachi on March 19. Concerns center around the possibility of reduced crowd attendance, impacting ticket revenue. Multan Sultans propose hosting the final at the Multan Cricket Stadium, confident in their ability to attract a substantial audience.

The PCB plans to officially announce the schedule on December 13, coinciding with the PSL 9 Draft. The announcement is eagerly awaited as it will provide clarity on venue details and address franchise concerns.

As the PCB navigates logistical considerations and franchise feedback, cricket fans eagerly anticipate the official schedule and venue details for PSL season nine. The strategic choice of four cities aims to create a diverse and engaging cricketing experience for fans across Pakistan.