The Pakistan Super League, which started on March 26, has been off to a rather rough start. In yesterday’s clash between Lahore Qalandars and Hyderabad Kingsmen, Lahore won by 69 runs at the Gaddafi Stadium. The tournament is being played across only two states in the country, with no spectators due to the Iran–USA clash and the government’s measures to conserve fuel.
Many players pulled out at the beginning of the PSL to participate in the IPL, leading to embarrassment for the Pakistan Cricket Board and its chief, Mohsin Naqvi. Naqvi has reportedly threatened legal action against these players. “Yes, two to three players have also left. We are planning to take legal action against them,” Mohsin Naqvi told reporters.
Zimbabwean pacer Blessing Muzarabani, who had been picked by Islamabad United as a replacement for Shamar Joseph, pulled out of the PSL after being signed by Kolkata Knight Riders as a replacement for Mustafizur Rahman.
Also Read | Last-Minute U-Turn! Indian Premier League set to Be broadcast in Bangladesh after Initial Ban
Not just Muzarabani, Sri Lankan captain Dasun Shanaka is set to join the Rajasthan Royals as a replacement for Sam Curran. Shanaka was initially set to feature for Lahore Qalandars in the PSL.
The PSL franchise Quetta Gladiators also faced a setback, as their star pacer Spencer Johnson was signed by Chennai Super Kings as a replacement for Nathan Ellis.
IPL pull extends beyond players as commentators switch from PSL
Not only players, but even commentators have been in the spotlight for being involved in both tournaments. This came to light after PSL commentator Nick Knight was seen on the IPL commentary panel released by Star Sports.
