‘Will continue as planned’ - PCB chairman Najam Sethi confirms PSL 8 will continue as planned despite Karachi blast

PCB chairman Najam Sethi has confirmed that the ongoing season of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) will continue as scheduled despite the terror attack at Karachi police headquarters on Friday, February 17. Militants wearing suicide vests, carrying weapons and grenades stormed the Karachi Police Office (KPO) and carried out the attack on Friday evening. 

Notably, the nation is currently hosting the top-tier league (PSL) and the safety of players remains top priority for the government and the cricket board of Pakistan. In the midst of the unfortunate incident, PCB chairman Najam Sethi confirmed that the event would go as planned and high security will be deployed for the teams and match officials. 

“The HBL PSL 8 will continue as planned after it has been established and confirmed that Friday’s incident was an isolated one, which was unrelated to cricket. We have been working very closely with all stakeholders, including the local and foreign security experts, who have provided assurances and comfort that the event can proceed as there was no threat to cricket,” Sethi said as quoted in a PCB press release.

“The PCB takes the safety and security of all those involved in the HBL PSL 8 very seriously. To ensure no stone is left unturned, Presidential-level security has been provided to the teams and officials. These unprecedented arrangements are similar to what were in place for international matches that have been highly praised and appreciated by the visiting teams and officials,” added Sethi.

“The PCB remains committed to providing complete safety and security to all the participants and, as always, will continue to work very closely with the security experts and law enforcing agencies to ensure the players and officials are comfortable and being well looked after so that they can enjoy their stay in Pakistan and continue to entertain the fans and followers with their cricketing skills and talent,” he concluded.

It is worth mentioning that two fixtures of the league are to take place on Saturday (February 18) and Sunday (February 19). Karachi Kings play Quetta Gladiators on February 18 followed by the home side clashing against Lahore Qalandars on Sunday.