Pakistan worried about the success of IPL, threatened international players

Controversy in Pakistan Super League 2026, withdrawal of foreign players

New Delhi: Controversy is increasing over the withdrawal of foreign players from the league before the start of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has warned of strict action against such players. He says that sudden withdrawal from the league is a violation of contract, which cannot be ignored. In recent times, many international players are leaving PSL and choosing Indian Premier League (IPL). For example, Sri Lanka’s T20 captain Dasun Shanaka, who previously signed with Lahore Qalandars, has now become a part of IPL team Rajasthan Royals.

Blessing Muzarabani associated with KKR

Zimbabwean fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani has also left the PSL and joined Kolkata Knight Riders. According to reports, last season the Pakistan Cricket Board had taken legal action against South African fast bowler Corbin Bosch. Corbin Bosch had distanced himself from the PSL by joining Mumbai Indians.

Mohsin Naqvi’s reaction

On this development, Mohsin Naqvi said that the legal department of PCB is thoroughly investigating all those cases where players have moved to another league in violation of the PSL contract. He made it clear that strict action is possible in such cases so that no player takes such step in future. However, Naqvi assured that these incidents will not have any negative impact on the reputation of PSL. He said that many key players like Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith and Glenn Maxwell are still looking forward to being a part of the league, which will maintain the level of competition.

PSL will be held without spectators

Meanwhile, the PCB has decided to hold the initial phase of the PSL without spectators. League matches will be played in Karachi and Lahore, but spectators will not be allowed to enter the stadium. PCB officials have denied any kind of security threat. He says that all the matches will be held in a safe environment. The league will start from March 26 as per schedule and no obstruction of any kind will be allowed in the event.