HBL PSL X postponed indefinitely

On the instructions of the Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Friday postponed the remaining eight matches of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) X.

"The last 24 hours have seen a worsening of the situation on the LOC, increased incursion of 78 drones, and the firing of surface to surface missiles from India," the PCB press release said.

"The decision to postpone has been taken pursuant to advice received from the Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif who has kept in view the reckless aggression from India that has escalated to a point where national attention and sentiments are rightly focused on the courageous efforts of the Armed Forces of Pakistan who are vociferously upholding the sovereignty of our beloved Pakistan," the release said.

It said that the PCB and its players stand resolutely in solidarity with the families of the martyrs and the security personnel defending the nation.

"The PCB recognizes the efforts and support of its partners, franchises, participating players, broadcasters, sponsors, and organizers in having ensured the smooth conduct of the tournament thus far, however; cricket while being a unifying force and a source of joy, must take a respectful pause when the country is facing such callous opposition," the press release added.

"We, at the PCB, also have sincere regard for the mental well-being of by participating players and the sentiments of our foreign players, and we respect the concerns of their families who want to see them back home."

Just a few hours ago the PCB had issued a press release that the remaining matches were shifted to the UAE. However, the fresh press release of the Board clarified that the remaining matches have now been postponed.

The league was on the brink of entering into the playoffs stage when it experienced a pause on Thursday following India's drone attacks on different cities in Pakistan, also including Rawalpindi. The game between Karachi Kings and Peshawar Zalmi scheduled to be held in Pindi Stadium yesterday was also postponed.

Quetta Gladiators with 13 points have already qualified for the playoffs while Karachi Kings, Lahore Qalandars, Peshawar Zalmi and Islamabad United were set to battle for the remaining three playoff spots. The league was scheduled to be conducted until May 18.

It must be noted that, because of the tension between the two countries, India had also today suspended its Indian Premier League for one week.