Multan taken by surprise as PCB shifts venue

ISLAMABAD: In a move that has sparked outrage and deep disappointment, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has controversially stripped Multan Sultans of their fundamental right to a home advantage by shifting their highly anticipated clash against Karachi Kings — originally scheduled for May 1 at the Multan Cricket Stadium — to Lahore.

According to the original fixture and the home-and-away protocols meticulously signed and ratified by all Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season X franchises, each team was guaranteed the opportunity to host five matches on their home turf. This critical clause was designed not only to ensure fairness but also to strengthen local fan engagement — a principle now seemingly overlooked.

Reliable sources have confirmed that, without prior consultation or formal approval from the Multan Sultans’ management, the PCB has unilaterally decided to relocate the match. The abrupt shift has left the Multan-based franchise and its loyal supporters feeling betrayed.

“The PCB has not consulted us before taking this major decision,” a senior official from the Multan Sultans’ administration told this correspondent. “We were promised five home matches. Now, with this sudden change, we are being denied what was contractually ours. Consultations were held, but at no point did we approve this move. The PCB’s unilateral action stands in clear violation of the agreed-upon rules and spirit of fair play.”

When approached for clarification, a PCB representative appeared uncertain about the developments, stating, “There were some discussions, but I am not sure about the final decision.”

The lack of transparency and communication has not only raised questions about the PCB’s internal processes but also threatens to cast a shadow over the credibility of the PSL’s governance. Multan Sultans, who command one of the most passionate fan bases in the league, now face the prospect of playing a “home” game far from their actual home — a blow both to the team’s strategic preparations and the spirit of competition.

With the May 1 fixture fast approaching, Multan Sultans’ management and fans alike await an official explanation, hoping that their grievances will be addressed and justice will be restored to uphold the integrity of the tournament.

PCB also shifted the last of Multan-leg match scheduled on 10 May afternoon between Multan Sultans and Quetta Gladiators will now take place on 11 May evening, with the first ball to be bowled at 8pm at the Multan Cricket Stadium.

“The decision has been taken after multiple discussions with all stakeholders and keeping in mind the operational ease and recent heat waves in certain parts of the country,” PCB handout says.

Meanwhile, tickets bought online for the 1 May encounter earlier scheduled in Multan will be automatically reimbursed in the accounts used at the time of booking. Tickets purchased from express centres will have to be physically refunded from TCS outlets to the fans. The inconvenience causes to fans in this regard is regretted.

Spectators can now enjoy the double header in Lahore with the same ticket earlier purchased for the evening match. Additionally, the fans who have already purchased tickets for 10 May fixture can use them for the next day (11 May).