UAE likely to shut door on PCB`s plan to host PSL in Dubai: Report

The Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) hopes to relocate the remaining matches of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) may be jeopardised, as fresh reports suggest that the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) is hesitant to approve the move amid heightened geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan.

According to news agency ANI, the ECB is reportedly exercising caution due to concerns over the potential consequences of hosting the PSL. The apprehension stems from fears that the decision could exacerbate regional sensitivities and disrupt communal harmony within the UAE’s diverse South Asian population.

Following recent escalations, the PCB had officially announced that the final eight fixtures of the PSL, originally scheduled to be held in Rawalpindi, Multan, and Lahore, would now take place in the UAE. However, ANI reported that a source close to the ECB, speaking on condition of anonymity, indicated that the board is likely to reject the request due to prevailing security concerns.

“The UAE has a diverse South Asian population which enjoys cricket. Hosting a tournament like the PSL in the midst of such tense circumstances could vitiate harmony, pose security risks and stir unnecessary friction between communities,” the source stated.

The ECB is reportedly concerned that allowing the PSL to proceed on Emirati soil could be interpreted as tacit support for the PCB. The board is also wary of straining its strategic relationship with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), especially given the strong cooperation in recent years. The UAE has hosted major events on India’s behalf, including the ICC T20 World Cup in 2021, multiple IPL editions, and India’s matches in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Dubai also serves as the headquarters of the International Cricket Council (ICC) and has been a regular venue for Asian Cricket Council (ACC) tournaments during the tenure of former ACC President and current ICC Chairman, Jay Shah.

This uncertainty arises in the backdrop of escalating military conflict following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 Hindu tourists. In retaliation, the Indian Armed Forces launched `Operation Sindoor`, targeting nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). Pakistan responded, but during the night of May 8 and 9, the Indian Army successfully thwarted multiple drone incursions along the western border and the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir.

This article first appeared on Mid Day