On December 23, 2022, Najam Sethi (chairman of the PCB Management Committee) discussed Peshawar and Quetta as PSL venues in the upcoming season. Till now, only four venues are present in the PSL venues list. But after yesterday’s Management Committee meeting, there are great chances that the number could be raised to five.
The committee wished to add Bugti Stadium, Quetta, Balochistan as a potential venue in PSL 2023. The thought about Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) was also a brief subject in this meeting. It is a promising situation for KP and Balochistan that can bring some domestic cricket to these states.
Peshawar and Quetta as PSL venues
Over the past few years, security and governance issues contributed to reasonable concern for not hosting PSL matches in the previous seasons. But the committee tends to make these issues go away as soon as possible. However, PCB might not add Peshawar to the PSL venues list this year. But the management of the Pakistan Cricket Board shows strong ambition to add this city to the list.
On the other hand, there is a highly expected possibility that PCB will add Bugti Stadium of Quetta to PSL venues. The committee members expressed to make contact with the administrative authorities of Bugti Cricket Stadium and the members of the Balochistan government. It is a necessary step to make essential changes in the stadium up to international standards.
“I am delighted that seven years after launching the HBL Pakistan Super League, I am today announcing our commitment to add Bugti Stadium in Quetta as the fifth venue for our marquee event. Bugti Stadium is the home ground of Quetta Gladiators and we still remember the incredible scenes when the Gladiators visited the city after winning the 2019 tournament.
“The passionate cricket fans of Quetta have been waiting for long to watch high-profile cricket in their backyard and I am pleased that we will now bring HBL PSL matches to their doors. In this relation, I have already spoken with influential officials in the Balochistan province, who have assured me of their complete support from event delivery perspectives” – Najam Sethi. PCB Management Committee plans to add Quetta as a venue for HBL PSL 8
More details: https://t.co/jTK6rLttIo#HBLPSL8
— PCB Media (@TheRealPCBMedia) December 23, 2022
The above-mentioned statement ensures good news for the citizens of Quetta and the Balochistan province. As Quetta Gladiators is important and has always been a strong team in the previous seasons of PSL. The stakes are very high for this team as they could be playing on their home ground which will be a spectacle to witness. Quetta Gladiators fans are immensely glad after this major step, as this time the fans won’t have to travel long distances to support their team.
FAQs:
Why have Peshawar and Quetta been chosen as venues for the upcoming PSL season?
Peshawar and Quetta have been selected as venues for the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) season due to their enthusiastic cricket fanbase and commitment to promoting the sport. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) aims to bring cricket closer to fans across the country, and these cities provide an opportunity to engage with fans who might not have had the chance to witness PSL matches live before.
What can fans expect from the PSL matches in Peshawar and Quetta?
Fans can expect an electrifying atmosphere and intense cricket action at both Peshawar and Quetta venues. The local supporters are known for their passion for the game, and this energy is bound to translate into an unforgettable experience for everyone attending. PSL matches in these cities will also encourage cricket development in these regions, inspiring young talent to pursue the sport professionally.
How are security and safety being ensured for players and fans in Peshawar and Quetta?
The safety and security of players, officials, and fans remain the top priority for the PCB. Rigorous security measures and protocols are in place to ensure a secure environment throughout the tournament. Local law enforcement agencies are working closely with the PCB to create a safe experience for everyone attending the matches, allowing cricket enthusiasts to enjoy the games without any concerns.
Conclusion:
The decision to host PSL matches in Peshawar and Quetta reflects the PCB’s commitment to spreading the cricketing fervor across different parts of Pakistan. By choosing these venues, the PCB is not only providing fans with a chance to witness top-quality cricket but also boosting the growth of the sport at the grassroots level. The passionate fanbase, combined with strict security arrangements, promises an exciting and safe PSL season that will be cherished by fans for years to come.