As tensions escalate between India and Pakistan, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken the unprecedented step of relocating all remaining matches of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 season to Karachi.

Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium suffers damage by drone attack

Visuals showing damage to Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Pakistan have been circulating on social media, accompanied by claims that a drone struck the venue just before a PSL match on Thursday. No official statement has yet been issued by the Pakistani government regarding the alleged drone attack. Despite rising India-Pakistan tensions following recent military strikes and counter-strikes, the PCB initially maintained that the PSL would continue as scheduled. However, after the drone incident, the PCB opted to relocate the matches to ensure safety.

The decision was finalized during an emergency meeting at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. The PCB, after thorough consultation with all stakeholders, concluded that Karachi offered the most secure environment for the remainder of the league. This shift follows reports of a drone attack near Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium just hours before the scheduled match between Karachi Kings and Peshawar Zalmi, which was subsequently called off and will be rescheduled in Karachi.

#BREAKING ????????‼️???????? An unidentified object fell on close shop in a food street in RAWALPINDI, Pakistan.

After Geolocating, the location is right next Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium where currently Pakistan Super league matches are held.

Reportedly one person got injured. pic.twitter.com/jzPQNfli4O

— Monitor???? (@MonitorX99800) May 8, 2025

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Logistical hurdles and PCB’s readiness to host the games at a new venue

The PCB’s priority is to avoid any disruptions, especially with the upcoming T20I home series against Bangladesh on the horizon-a series seen as crucial for Pakistan’s international cricket calendar. There are eight matches left in the tournament: four league matches and four playoff games, including the final. Of the remaining league matches, three were originally scheduled to be played in Rawalpindi and one in Multan. For the playoffs, Rawalpindi was set to host the Qualifier match, while Lahore was designated to host the two Eliminators and the Final.

While the sudden venue change presents significant logistical challenges-ranging from team travel and accommodation to ticketing and broadcasting-the PCB and local authorities remain confident in Karachi’s capacity to host the remaining fixtures. The city’s infrastructure, proven track record with major sporting events, and rapid deployment of security resources are expected to mitigate potential disruptions.

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