Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has addressed the ongoing withdrawal of players from the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026. In response to these sudden foreign departures, Naqvi expressed complete indifference, claiming that the PSL continues to attract new talent and has adequate replacements.
Several high-profile international cricketers have suddenly abandoned their contractual commitments in Pakistan to secure lucrative franchise deals in the upcoming Indian Premier League season, severely impacting many teams.
It all started when Zimbabwean fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani left Islamabad United to join Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for IPL 2026. PCB has now threatened legal action against the players who withdrew from the league.
We will take legal action against the players – Mohsin Naqvi
During a recent press conference, Mohsin Naqvi shared his stance on the return of players. The PCB chief claimed that the Pakistan Super League is attracting new international replacements despite these ongoing challenges.
“2-3 have gone and we are taking legal action on that. If you look at last year and this time, you will see how many Category A players we have attracted, players who never used to come before are also coming now,” Naqvi said.
“For us, there is no point in hitting the IPL because there is a strong pool of good players there. Even if some players are leaving, a large number are also coming to us.”
PSL 2026 to be held without spectators in Karachi and Lahore
Mohsin Naqvi also confirmed that PSL 2026 will be held only in Karachi and Lahore, with the opening matches being held without spectators. The decision comes amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and the looming oil crisis, which has forced the board to rethink its original plans.
The tournament was initially scheduled in six cities, including Multan, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad and Peshawar, but the PCB has reduced the venues to streamline logistics and ensure security.
Naqvi said the league would still start as planned on March 26, adding that initially the matches would be played behind closed doors, with further decisions to be taken depending on the global situation.
“After consultation with the Prime Minister and security agencies, we have decided that the PSL will start as planned on March 26,” Naqvi said.
“Initially, matches will be held without crowds and this will continue depending on the global situation.”
PSL worries grow as Muzarabani blesses IPL move amid player exodus
Blessing Muzarabani’s move to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) has become the biggest talking point after the Zimbabwean pacer left Islamabad United despite being contracted for PSL 2026. He joined KKR as a replacement for Mustafizur Rahman.
Muzarabani is not the only player to prioritize the IPL window. Gudakesh Moti is expected to join Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), while Dasun Shanaka is also likely to move to Rajasthan Royals (RR) as a replacement player.
These sudden withdrawals have left PSL franchises scrambling to find replacements just days before the March 26 opener. The situation has become serious due to the overlap of IPL 2026 and the team combination has been significantly affected.
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