New Delhi: sparse crowds pakistan super league (PSL) Islamabad United owner sparks controversy after 2026 match Ali Naqvi offers an unusual explanation, linking it to Pakistan’s role in global diplomacy. His comments suggested that the vacant stadiums were part of a larger national effort, although this version differed from what officials, including Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi, had said earlier.
Ali Naqvi’s claims and reactions
In a post on X, Naqvi noted that Pakistan prioritizes peace efforts over cricket entertainment, especially since it is involved in ceasefire discussions.“Not hosting the tournament in Pindi makes perfect sense – Islamabad is the obvious venue of choice for sensitive ceasefire discussions and the unpredictable timing requires absolute flexibility in terms of logistics and security,” he added.He said security resources were focused on more important priorities, adding, “When forced to weigh entertainment against helping achieve global peace, I believe every Pakistani would make exactly the same decision.”Naqvi also dismissed comparisons with other leagues, saying: “Furthermore, comparisons with another league that allows fans are not valid at all.”
Official version and criticism
However, this explanation conflicts with the Pakistan Cricket Board’s earlier statement. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi said the policy banning crowd gatherings was due to fuel shortages that restricted public movement.“this [Pakistan] Prime Minister [Shehbaz Sharif] Due to the fuel crisis and the requirement to limit the movement of people, we have decided that the PSL will continue according to the original schedule, but without crowds. “Critics say linking empty stadiums to global peace efforts goes too far. Seemingly practical problems of fuel shortages and logistics have been reframed as major diplomatic sacrifices.
