PSL X postponed indefinitely amid Pakistan-India standoff

Peshawar Zalmi skipper Babar Azam and batter Maaz Sadaqat in action during their match against Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League season 10 at Gadaffi Stadium, Lahore, May 2, 2025. — PCB

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has indefinitely postponed the remaining eight matches of Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 10 amid surging hostilities with India.

The decision follows a significant spike in hostilities along the Line of Control (LoC), including the incursion of 78 Indian drones and the firing of surface-to-surface missiles, which the PCB termed as “reckless aggression” from India.

The move to suspend the tournament was taken on the advice of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, “who has kept in view the reckless aggression from India that has escalated to a point where national attention and sentiments are rightly focused on the courageous efforts of the Armed Forces of Pakistan who are vociferously upholding the sovereignty of our beloved Pakistan.”

“In such times, while cricket unites and brings joy, it must take a respectful pause,” the board said.

The PCB expressed full solidarity with the families of martyrs and security personnel, and thanked all stakeholders — franchises, players, sponsors, broadcasters, and fans — for their continued support during the tournament.

The board also acknowledged the emotional toll on players, particularly foreign cricketers, and respected the concerns of their families seeking their safe return home.

The latest escalation in the decades-old Pakistan-India rivalry began on May 7 when at least 31 civilians were killed in an unprovoked Indian cross-border attack. In retaliation, Pakistan downed its five fighter jets, including three Rafale, and dozens of drones.

Meanwhile, India continues to send drones into Pakistani territory, with the military shooting down nearly 80, including Israeli-made IAI Heron — medium-altitude, long-endurance — unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

The postponement came when the PSL 10 was in its final stage, with only eight matches remaining.

After 27 matches, Quetta Gladiators, already qualified for the playoffs, lead the points table with six wins, two losses and one no result from nine matches.

Karachi Kings are in second place with 10 points, having secured five wins and three losses in eight matches. Defending champions Islamabad United sit in third position, also with 10 points, following five wins and four losses from nine games.

Lahore Qalandars are in fourth place with nine points, having secured four wins, four losses, and one no-result. Peshawar Zalmi are in fifth position with eight points from four wins in nine matches.

Multan Sultans have been eliminated from playoff contention after securing only one win and suffering eight defeats in their nine matches.