Speculation is mounting that the ninth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) may be moved to Dubai, prompting an urgent meeting of the PSL Governing Council scheduled for September 25.
This meeting is being called in response to ongoing demands from franchise owners who are worried about the current state of affairs in the PSL.
The upcoming gathering will mark the first meeting under the leadership of Zaka Ashraf, who is heading the PCB Management Committee. Sources suggest that franchise owners are expressing frustration over what they perceive as slow management of the PSL, particularly concerning the handling of expenses for PSL 8.
Franchise owners are particularly unhappy about not being consulted regarding the appointment of the PSL head. Additionally, they have raised concerns about the scheduling of the PSL season, which is set for February-March, as no prior consultation took place with the franchises regarding these dates.
The challenges faced by PSL franchises are being compounded by the overlap with leagues in the UAE and South Africa. Furthermore, franchise owners are worried about foreign cricketers signing up with other leagues, which could potentially impact player availability for the PSL.
While there are indications from the PCB to move PSL 9 to Dubai, citing upcoming elections and local administrative expenses, there is disagreement within the organization about changing the venue. Franchise owners argue that moving the PSL out of Pakistan at this time could have negative consequences.
The fate of PSL 9 and the possibility of relocating it will be a central topic of discussion during the upcoming Governing Council meeting, as stakeholders aim to address these pressing concerns and plan a way forward for the league.
