IPL and PSL set to resume this weekend

The Indian Premier League (IPL) and Pakistan Super League (PSL) are set to resume on Saturday, May 17, after both tournaments were paused for about a week. The suspension came amid rising border tensions, but with recent positive developments, both leagues are ready to continue their seasons.

The IPL had to halt its matches abruptly, with one game between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals called off mid-play due to precautionary reasons. The venue in Dharamsala, close to sensitive border areas, was excluded from the revised schedule. 

The remaining league matches will be played across six venues, and the final has been pushed back to June 3. IPL officials have confirmed that no matches will be forfeited due to the suspension, and the resumption aims to complete the season smoothly.

From the IPL perspective, BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla remarked, “After extensive consultations with government and security agencies, and with all the key stakeholders, the Board has decided to proceed with the remainder of the season.”

On the PSL front, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced the restart with a clear plan to finish the tournament by May 25. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi took to social media to rally support, stating, “HBL PSL X picks up from where it left off. 6 teams, 0 fear.

Get ready for 8 thrilling matches starting May 17, leading up to the Grand Final on May 25. Best of luck to all the teams!” The PCB is working on finalising venues and schedules, with expectations that the remaining matches will be held in Pakistan. 

The availability of foreign players, however, remains uncertain, as some international participants have made it clear that they might not be returning. The PCB is considering a replacement draft to address any gaps in team lineups.

A PCB source commented, “We have eight games, including the final, remaining in the PSL, and the plan is to resume by May 15-16 with or without foreign players and wrap up the event.” The board is also working in contact with the Bangladesh Cricket Board to ensure their players’ participation, though players from England, New Zealand, and Australia are less likely to return this season.