Due to security concerns stemming from what PCB Chair Mohsin Naqvi termed an “extremely irresponsible and dangerous Indian act” targeting the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced on Friday the relocation of the remaining eight matches of the HBL Pakistan Super League X to the UAE.

The decision, made in response to the security threat, prioritizes the safety and well-being of both domestic and international players. The final phase of the tournament, originally scheduled for Rawalpindi, Multan, and Lahore, will now be played in the UAE. A revised schedule with specific venues and dates is expected to be released shortly.

The matches affected include the Karachi Kings vs. Peshawar Zalmi, Peshawar Zalmi vs. Lahore Qalandars, Islamabad United vs. Karachi Kings, Multan Sultans vs. Quetta Gladiators, the Qualifier, Eliminator 1, Eliminator 2, and the Final. Foreign players have already begun departing for Dubai.

The PCB emphasized its commitment to completing the tournament successfully and urged all stakeholders to support their efforts. The board cited the mental well-being of the players as a key factor in the decision to relocate the matches.

The decision comes after Pakistan shot down over 30 Indian drones after they violated Pakistani airspace.