PM Sharif approves fan attendance for PSL final

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved spectator attendance for the final of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), ending uncertainty over crowd participation for the tournament’s climax.

The announcement was made by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who said he had requested permission for fans to attend matches, following concerns over restrictions linked to austerity measures.

Naqvi said the prime minister was initially inclined to restrict attendance due to ongoing nationwide efforts to reduce fuel consumption and cut costs. However, he later agreed to allow spectators in the stadium for the PSL final following a request from franchise owners.

“I had requested the prime minister to allow spectators in stadiums,” Naqvi said in a social media post. “On the request of franchise owners, he has graciously approved the presence of fans for the PSL final.”

The decision applies to the final match of the league’s 11th edition, scheduled to be held on May 3 at the Gaddafi Stadium Lahore.

Naqvi thanked the prime minister for what he described as a facilitation for fans, saying the move would allow supporters to witness the high-profile final in person.

The PSL is Pakistan’s premier Twenty20 cricket league, featuring domestic and international players, and has a strong fan following across the country.