PSL forced behind closed doors as fuel crisis halts travel

The Pakistan Super League will begin in an atmosphere unlike any previous edition, with all matches played behind closed doors and restricted to just two host cities. The sweeping changes stem from the deepening Iran conflict, which has triggered a nationwide fuel crisis and sent prices soaring. With the government urging citizens to limit travel and work remotely, organisers had little choice but to abandon the usual multi‑city format and eliminate fan attendance altogether.

Instead of six venues, the entire 44‑match schedule across 39 days will be split between Lahore and Karachi, while Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Peshawar and Multan have been removed from the rotation. Even the traditional opening ceremony has been cancelled. The decision is a heavy blow in a country where cricket carries immense cultural weight and the PSL is a flagship event, especially with the tournament launching just days before the lucrative IPL. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi admitted the call was painful but unavoidable given the ongoing crisis.