The Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 10 has roared back to life despite the recent Pakistan-India conflict, proving that “war can’t stop cricket.” Following a drone strike near Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has rescheduled the tournament’s final eight matches, with four to be played in Rawalpindi and four in Lahore, including the grand final. The action resumes today, May 17, 2025, in Rawalpindi, with a double-header featuring Peshawar Zalmi vs Lahore Qalandars and Islamabad United vs Karachi Kings.
The Rawalpindi Incident: A Moment of Uncertainty
On May 8, 2025, an Indian drone strike near Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium disrupted PSL 10, occurring just before a scheduled match between Peshawar Zalmi and Karachi Kings. The attack, part of heightened tensions under Operation Sindoor, damaged a nearby restaurant and forced the cancellation of matches on May 8 and 9. The PCB initially considered relocating the tournament to the UAE but, following a ceasefire on May 10, opted to resume in Pakistan. The incident has only fueled the determination of players and fans to continue the tournament, with social media rallying behind the hashtag #WarCantStopCricket.
The Revised Schedule: Rawalpindi and Lahore Take Center Stage
After 27 matches, PSL 10’s remaining eight fixtures have been split between Rawalpindi and Lahore. The updated schedule, confirmed through recent posts on X, is as follows:
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May 17, Rawalpindi: Peshawar Zalmi vs Lahore Qalandars (day match)
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May 17, Rawalpindi: Islamabad United vs Karachi Kings (night match)
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May 18, Rawalpindi: Quetta Gladiators vs Multan Sultans
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May 19, Rawalpindi: Peshawar Zalmi vs Karachi Kings
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May 21, Lahore: Qualifier 1
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May 22, Lahore: Eliminator 1
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May 23, Lahore: Eliminator 2
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May 25, Lahore: Final
The PCB has prioritized safety, working with security agencies to ensure a smooth resumption. Foreign players like England’s James Vince and Tom Curran, who had considered leaving due to the conflict, have returned, reassured by enhanced security measures. The shift to Rawalpindi and Lahore aligns with the PCB’s commitment to keeping cricket alive in Pakistan, even amidst regional tensions.
Resilience in the Face of Conflict
The drone strike and subsequent cancellations coincided with a broader suspension of cricketing events, including the Indian Premier League (IPL), due to the India-Pakistan conflict. However, Pakistan’s swift action to resume PSL 10 has been lauded globally. The PCB’s decision to host matches in Rawalpindi and Lahore, rather than shifting entirely to a neutral venue, underscores cricket’s role as a unifying force. Quetta Gladiators’ record-breaking 263 for 3 earlier in the tournament, powered by centuries from Rossouw and Nawaz, remains a highlight, with fans eager for more thrilling performances.
What’s Next for PSL 10?
With the tournament back on track, all eyes are on the remaining matches. The double-header in Rawalpindi today sets the tone, with Peshawar Zalmi and Islamabad United looking to build momentum. The playoffs in Lahore promise high-stakes drama, culminating in the final on May 25. Players like Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi are expected to lead their teams, with the title race wide open. The PCB has also ensured accessibility, offering refunds for Rawalpindi ticket holders affected by the cancellations and opening ticket sales for the new fixtures.
War Can’t Stop Cricket: A Unified Message
The phrase “war can’t stop cricket” has become a rallying cry, reflecting the resilience of Pakistan’s cricket community. The Rawalpindi drone incident, while a stark reminder of regional tensions, has united fans and players in their love for the game. As PSL 10 continues, it stands as a beacon of hope, showing that even in the toughest times, cricket can bring people together.
