PSL 2024 schedule to be changed? Disturbing news arrives from Pakistan amid PSL trophy unveiling

A Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise owner has reportedly requested the PCB change the tournament window. The franchise owner highlighted conflicts with other cricket tournaments, which have led to withdrawals from international players from the PSL.

The participation of international players in the ninth edition of the PSL has been affected by the restrictions imposed by various cricket boards. All six teams are facing significant challenges, with players opting for other T20 leagues like SA20 and the IPL over the PSL.

PSL 2024 To Kick Off On February 17 In Lahore

The PSL 2024 will kick off with a face-off between defending champions Lahore Qalandars and Islamabad United at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on February 17. The tournament will conclude with the showdown at Karachi’s National Bank Stadium on March 18.

The 2024 season will be played across four cities, namely Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi, encompassing a total of 34 matches. Karachi will host 11 matches, including the Qualifier, two Eliminators, and the final. Lahore and Rawalpindi will each host nine matches, while Multan will feature five matches in the T20 league.

Reece Topley Ruled Out Of PSL 2024 As ECB Denies NOC

English left-arm pacer Reece Topley, who was selected by the Multan Sultans franchise, has recently been withdrawn from the 2024 PSK. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) declined to issue Topley a No Objection Certificate (NOC) due to injury concerns.

Throughout his career, Topley has faced numerous injury setbacks, including one before the 2022 T20 World Cup. With the upcoming T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the USA, the defending champions will likely consider him for selection if he regains full fitness.

Several International Players To Miss Tournament

Other cricket boards are reviewing their decisions regarding issuing no-objection certificates for players to participate in the PSL. Lungi Ngidi from South Africa has exited Peshawar Zalmi, while Wanandu Hasaranga from Sri Lanka won’t be representing Quetta Gladiators.

Notable absentees from the tournament include West Indies cricketers Shai Hope, Matthew Forde, and Akeal Hosein; South Africans Tabraiz Shamsi and Rassie van der Dussen; England batter James Vince; and Afghanistan bowlers Noor Ahmed and Naveen ul Haq.

It Is Getting Difficult To Sign Big Players Now – Franchise Owner

A PSL franchise owner has urged the PCB to reassess the tournament schedule due to difficulties in attracting top players. The owner also highlighted scheduling a busy international cricket series in January-February involving Sri Lanka, South Africa, and the West Indies.

“The SA20 ended recently and the ILT20 concludes on the day the PSL begins, so it is getting difficult to sign big players now,” he said on condition of anonymity.

He emphasized the necessity of adjusting the PSL window to maintain its appeal and secure prominent overseas talents.

“There is an acute need to change the PSL window, or else it will lose its charm if we don’t get big overseas names,” he added.

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