Half of PSL4 will take place in Pakistan, promises Sethi

PCB chairman reveals exciting plans for next year that will bring 50% of matches back to country

KARACHI: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Najam Sethi has revealed plans of hosting half of the Pakistan Super League’s (PSL) fourth edition in the country.

Sethi broke the news while talking to the media during his visit of the National Stadium in Karachi on Friday.

“We plan to have half of the PSL next year in Pakistan,” said Sethi. “But for that, we need four stadiums. As of now, we have Lahore, Karachi and Multan ready to host big matches, so now our focus is on preparing the stadiums of Rawalpindi and Peshawar.”

The 70-year-old Sethi went on to explain the importance of successful organisation of PSL3 final. “We’ve been working day and night to bring back international cricket back in the country. This final [of PSL3] is of real significance for the people of Karachi and Pakistan. First people said PSL is not possible, then they said it cannot take place in Pakistan, then they said foreign players will not come, but we’ve proven them wrong.”

Sethi also said that PSL3 final will highlight the positive image of Karachi. “When I announced that PSL3 final will be organised in Karachi, people said we will not be able to bring foreign players because of the city’s image of being dangerous and unsafe,” said Sethi. “But once we successfully organise the PSL3 final, I am sure it will give a positive image of Karachi, which will help in reviving sports and improving tourism in the city.”

Talking about the return of international cricket in the country, Sethi said: “We are going step-by-step in that regard. West Indies are coming in early April, but unfortunately, we don’t have space in the running year to have more series in Pakistan as we are touring other countries.”