PSL 2025 is set to resume in Pakistan between May 17 and 25 following a suspension caused by heightened India–Pakistan military tensions. But while the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is pushing to finish the tournament on home soil, a key challenge looms: the availability of overseas players.
“The PSL 2025 will resume on May 17, with the final on May 25. The League will pick up from where it left off, six teams with zero fear,” PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi announced on X (formerly Twitter).
Foreign player availability in doubt after conflict-related suspension
The league was initially paused and considered for relocation to the UAE after border tensions escalated. With stability now returning, the PCB has confirmed that the remaining matches will be held in Pakistan, but not without complications.
“This is because of the problems the Board and the franchises, excluding Multan Sultans, are facing in convincing their overseas players to return for the remaining matches,” a franchise official told NDTV.
Multan Sultans, already eliminated from playoff contention with only one game left, are not prioritizing the return of their international players. “Since Multan had only one match remaining and were out of the running for the playoffs, it was not cost-effective for them to recall their overseas players,” the official added.
Mini-draft under consideration to fill squad gaps
With five franchises—Karachi Kings, Lahore Qalandars, Quetta Gladiators, Islamabad United, and Peshawar Zalmi—still in the playoff race, the PCB is exploring options to reinforce depleted squads.
“Franchise officials and the Board are in touch with the players’ agents to get them to return to Pakistan for the remaining matches,” the official said. But if that outreach fails, a contingency plan is on the table.
“If the franchises aren’t successful in convincing their overseas players to return, the PCB will consider organising a mini replacement draft,” a PCB source told Mathrubhumi.
Alternatively, under league rules, teams are permitted to play without any foreign players or with a maximum of four.
Overseas reluctance despite PCB assurances
While some players have agreed to return, others—especially those who flew home via Dubai—remain hesitant. Among them are eight New Zealand cricketers, including former captain Kane Williamson, who are still weighing the situation despite the PCB’s security assurances.
Karachi Kings secure overseas boost with Warner return
Karachi Kings have emerged as one of the few teams to make progress. Star player and captain David Warner has confirmed his return, accompanied by two other Australian teammates. The franchise hopes this injection of international experience will give them a competitive advantage as the playoff race heats up.
The PCB’s decision on the potential mini draft—and the level of international player participation—will be key in determining the competitiveness and global appeal of the remaining PSL 2025 matches.
