Lahore and Rawalpindi matches of HBLPSL 8 are likely to be shifted to Karachi after the Punjab government demands Rs.500 million from Pakistan Cricket Board.
The Punjab government has demanded a whopping amount for organizing the matches and providing security to the players and in the stadium. Initially, it was decided to conduct the matches at four venues across Pakistan- Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi.
The tournament begins with matches in Karachi and Multan. The Lahore leg matches were to be played. However, the matches are expected to be transferred to Karachi. Matches have been played at Multan Cricket Stadium and National Bank Cricket Arena in Karachi.
The decision is expected to be made in light of the whopping amount demanded by the Punjab Government. According to reports, PCB has already paid Rs.5 crore for food expenses. Punjab Government is also demanding the immediate payment of Rs. 45 crores for the security arrangements.
This massive amount will be deducted from the profits of the franchises due to which PCB has called an immediate meeting with the franchises. It is expected that the franchises and PCB will unanimously decide to shift all the matches to the Karachi of Lahore and Rawalpindi leg. The decision is expected to save the costs of PCB.
Read more: Najam Sethi faces backlash for absurd tweet on PSL and TTP attacks
In stark contrast, Sindh Government had demanded only Rs. 30 million for organizing matches in Karachi. “The PCB has never paid such a huge security expense even when organizing the PSL in the United Arab Emirates,” sources said.
“The PCB has the stance that since the PSL is a national brand, serving a huge national purpose, therefore the government should come out with open heart for it.”
The main security expense incurred for holding PSL matches is the installation of lights on both sides of the routes of the team traveling from the hotels to the stadium.