Foreign cricketers seek PSL exit amid security fears
Rishad Hossain during a PSL match
The escalating conflict has had a direct impact on both countries’ franchise cricket leagues. In India, two IPL matches have already been relocated due to security concerns.
PSL match between Rana’s Zalmi and Kings postponed
2 hrs ago
Meanwhile, although Wednesday’s Pakistan Super League (PSL) match went ahead as planned, uncertainty looms over the remaining fixtures. Several foreign players participating in the PSL have requested to return home amid the tensions.
Among those expressing concerns are England internationals David Willey and Chris Jordan, both playing for Multan Sultans. With their team out of the playoff race, they have only one group-stage match left. Bangladeshi cricketers Rishad Hossain and Nahid Rana are also part of this season's PSL.
Following Operation Sindoor, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has expressed serious concern over the safety of its players and confirmed they are in regular contact with both Rishad and Nahid.
Meanwhile, flight operations have been suspended at several airports in both India and Pakistan, raising additional concerns among players about returning home safely.
BCB closely monitoring safety of Rishad and Nahid in Pakistan
7 May 25![Rishad Hossain [L] and Nahid Rana](https://cricfrenzy.com/public/storage/images/5-2025/cf_HVhxpVyz.jpg)
A foreign cricketer currently in Islamabad told Cricfrenzy, “The players are all in Islamabad and are in touch with their respective embassies. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has spoken to us and reassured us that Islamabad is safe, but the uncertainty is making everyone anxious. Around 40–45 foreign players and coaches are here, and they are visibly worried.”
The player also revealed that no teams are currently training, and the PCB has proposed shifting the remaining matches to Karachi. However, many players have requested the tournament be moved to Dubai instead — or they would prefer to return to their countries.
Foreign players stuck in both countries are facing logistical issues trying to return home. In Pakistan, PCB Chairman Naqvi has initiated discussions with board officials to determine the PSL’s future.
Simultaneously, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Professional Cricketers’ Association (PCA) have held emergency meetings to assess the situation and take necessary steps to ensure the safety of English players in Pakistan.
While the PCB is pushing to conclude the PSL in Karachi, foreign players continue to advocate for the remaining games to be hosted in Dubai.
