Mohsin Naqvi breaks silence on organizing PSL 2025 amid challenging international schedule

Mohsin Naqvi, chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), is striving to secure the "best possible window" for the next edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). This decision underscores Mohsin Naqvi's dedication to ensuring the success of the PSL 2025 edition.

The Pakistan Super League has faced timing challenges over the last few years. Launched in 2016, the tournament's customary February-March slot once enjoyed an uncluttered calendar. However, evolving other leagues have presented greater obstacles for the Pakistan board.

The rise of the SA20 and the ILT20 leagues has created significant challenges for the PSL, overshadowing its financial prowess. Consequently, the late winter period has become increasingly congested, leaving the PSL with a narrower window from mid-February to mid-March.

Despite scheduling challenges, the SA20 and ILT20 leagues offer players more employment options during this period. These leagues provide significantly higher salary bands compared to the PSL, making South Africa and the UAE more appealing destinations than Pakistan.

PSL Is Pakistan's Brand - Mohsin Naqvi

Mohsin Naqvi emphasized the PCB's intention to consult stakeholders to schedule PSL 10 strategically, avoiding clashes with international engagements.

Recognizing the PSL's stature as Pakistan's top cricket brand, Naqvi acknowledged the logistical hurdles but assured the PCB's preparedness to manage them effectively. Naqvi affirmed that the PCB is committed to prioritizing the league's significance for Pakistan.

“PSL is Pakistan’s brand which is why it will get its due importance. Holding PSL 10 alongside international commitments will be a challenge but we are ready for it,” Naqvi said.

Following their tour of South Africa, the Pakistani national cricket team will head to New Zealand for a limited-overs tour in January 2025. Subsequently, a one-day triangular series featuring teams from New Zealand, South Africa, and Pakistan is scheduled for February next year.

Pakistan is scheduled to host the Champions Trophy 2025 in February and March next year. Consequently, franchises have expressed concerns about the scheduling of the tournament, posing challenges for organizing the Pakistan Super League.

The PCB is evaluating three potential windows for PSL 2025, with the most favorable one coinciding with the Indian Premier League (IPL) in April and May. The Pakistan Cricket Board is considering the advantages and disadvantages of scheduling the league alongside the IPL.

PCB To Discuss With Franchise Over Schedule In Next Council Meeting

The forthcoming PSL season marks the termination of current contracts, prompting talks on expanding teams and renewing franchises. The success of the 10th edition is pivotal for preserving PSL's brand value, shaping discussions on its future structure, and ensuring its continued prominence in cricketing circles.

The upcoming council meeting will host discussions on the scheduling of the PSL, with input from stakeholders shaping the decision-making process. The third window for scheduling the PSL coincides with the Asia Cup in September 2025.

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