'Petrol Shortage League': Pakistan's PSL trolled after league reduced to two venues
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has revised the schedule for the 11th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), reducing the scale of the tournament after consultations with the government over austerity measures. Under the new plan, the number of host cities has been cut from six to two, with all matches now set to be played in Lahore and Karachi. The decision has drawn reactions from a section of fans on social media, with many criticising the reduced arrangements.
The changes come amid an ongoing oil crisis, which has impacted planning for the tournament. Apart from limiting venues, the PCB has also cancelled the opening ceremony and decided to hold matches behind closed doors in an effort to reduce costs. The league has also seen player exits, with some cricketers moving to the Indian Premier League as injury replacements.
Some fans mocked the situation online. Iceland Cricket also posted a message on X. "The PSL is coming up and that is very exciting for many millions of cricket fans.
We have always wondered what PSL stands for and it turns out it means Petrol Shortage League," the post read. — icelandcricket (@icelandcricket) A user replied to the post by calling it the “Paisa shortage league. ” The PSL is being held alongside the IPL this year after it could not take place in its usual window due to the T20 World Cup 2026.
Players such as Zimbabwe's Blessing Muzarabani and reportedly Sri Lanks's Dasun Shanaka have left the PSL to join IPL teams as replacements. With higher earnings available in the IPL, players have opted for those opportunities. The changes, including fewer venues, no opening ceremony and matches without spectators, come at a time when the league continues to compete with other T20 tournaments.