KARACHI: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi on Monday shared that he will again request Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to allow fans to watch the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 at the stadium.
“I will talk to the Prime Minister again about the meeting,” Naqvi told reporters in Karachi, adding that the PCB would make every effort to bring the visitors back to the stadium.
However, the PCB chairman emphasized the need to consider the global crises arising from the Middle East conflict.
His comments come days after the PCB announced that PSL matches will be played without spectators as part of the government’s austerity measures amid the ongoing regional crisis.
At that time, Naqvi announced that he would limit the tournament to two stadiums, Karachi and Lahore. He also said that this decision has been taken to reduce public movement.
The decision follows the government’s massive austerity and savings programs to tackle the ongoing global fuel crisis.
Later, several franchise owners called back spectators, stressing that the presence of fans is vital to the league’s atmosphere and identity.
They appealed to both the Prime Minister and Chief Ministers to allow gatherings in stadiums during the ongoing edition.
Meanwhile, the PCB chief lauded the law enforcement agencies for ensuring smooth conduct of the PSL despite prevailing challenges.
While he announced his desire to ensure that audiences return to the arena, Naqvi ruled out any change in schedule.
The PCB president added that the owners will get the gate money and the board will cover the related expenses.
Naqvi also said plans are under consideration to review and rebuild the National Bank Cricket Stadium to improve the facilities.