Armed Group Tells Foreign Players to Avoid PSL, Flags Security Risks in Pakistan

The 11th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), set to begin on March 26, has come under an intense security cloud after a direct warning from an armed group in Pakistan.

In a statement, the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), particularly its Jamaat-ul-Ahrar faction, urged overseas players to pull out of the tournament, citing a volatile security environment.

The message, issued by spokesperson Asad Mansoor, criticised the staging of a high-profile cricket league amid unrest in regions such as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. It described the PSL as insensitive to the suffering in these areas and questioned the narrative of stability that the Pakistan Cricket Board aims to project.

In a strongly worded appeal to foreign cricketers, the group warned that the prevailing political and security conditions make participation risky. It stated that ongoing unrest and military operations create an environment where the safety of international athletes cannot be assured, advising them to prioritise personal security.

The development adds pressure on the tournament’s global credibility, especially as several overseas players have already opted out. Zimbabwe pacer Blessing Muzarabani and Sri Lanka all-rounder Dasun Shanaka have withdrawn to join the Indian Premier League (IPL), which begins on March 28. Australia’s Jake Fraser-McGurk had earlier pulled out citing personal reasons.

Meanwhile, Australian star Steve Smith has arrived in Pakistan to represent Multan Sultans, marking his first appearance in the PSL despite the growing concerns.

Adding to the challenges, the tournament will now be held without spectators due to a nationwide fuel crisis. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed that all matches will take place behind closed doors at just two venues in Karachi and Lahore, instead of the originally planned multi-city format.

The decision follows government-imposed energy conservation measures amid global oil supply disruptions linked to escalating tensions in West Asia. Authorities have urged citizens to limit travel, making large stadium gatherings impractical.

The PCB has also scrapped the opening ceremony and announced compensation for franchises to offset revenue losses. Fans who had purchased tickets have been offered refunds within a 72-hour window.

As teams arrive under tight security, the mood surrounding PSL 2026 is subdued. What was meant to be a celebration of cricket now unfolds under extraordinary circumstances, testing Pakistan’s ability to host international sporting events amid ongoing challenges.