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LAHORE: Thousands of cricket fans will be permitted to attend the final of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) in Lahore, providing a rare reprieve for a tournament largely played behind closed doors due to a regional fuel crisis and conflict.
The decision to open the gates of the Gaddafi Stadium for the season finale comes after a personal intervention by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who secured approval from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
“I requested Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to allow spectators in the stadiums,” Naqvi said in a statement on social media platform X.
“While he emphasized that austerity measures are currently in place he has graciously approved the presence of fans for the PSL 11 Final on the request of franchise owners.”
The 11th edition of the country’s marquee T20 league has been heavily impacted by geopolitical instability. A widening conflict between the United States and Iran has triggered a severe fuel crisis across the region, forcing the state to adopt strict austerity measures to curb energy consumption.
To minimize travel and logistics, the current season, the first to feature an expanded eight-team format was restricted to just two venues, Karachi and Lahore. The schedule was further compressed with frequent double-headers to ensure the tournament met its broadcast obligations while navigating the regional turmoil.
Until now, the stands have remained empty to discourage mass transit and fuel usage. However, the final will see a capacity crowd of approximately 35,000 spectators.
On the field, the race for the title has narrowed. Former champions Peshawar Zalmi, Multan Sultans and Islamabad United have already secured their spots in the playoffs. The remaining five franchises are battling for the final post-season berth as the tournament enters its knockout phase.
The return of fans is seen as a vital boost for the PCB and franchise owners, who have faced significant commercial pressure due to the absence of gate receipts this season.
“This is a decision for the fans,” Naqvi added. “We thank the Prime Minister for facilitating their return for the biggest match of the year.”
The final will be held on May 3.
