PSL 11 final to be played with crowd as PM Shehbaz grants approval

LAHORE: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has granted approval for spectators to attend the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 final, offering fans a chance to witness the title decider live at the stadium.

The confirmation was made by Mohsin Naqvi, who revealed that the decision came after multiple requests from franchise owners. The final is scheduled to be played at Gaddafi Stadium on May 3.

The ongoing edition of the tournament has been played behind closed doors due to government-imposed austerity measures aimed at reducing fuel consumption amid a broader regional crisis.

Matches were also limited to fewer venues, with Karachi and Lahore hosting fixtures instead of the originally planned six-city format.

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Naqvi shared that he had personally requested the prime minister to reconsider the no-spectator policy. While the government remained cautious due to ongoing resource conservation efforts, an exception has now been made for the final.

“Dear cricket fans, I requested Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to allow spectators in the stadiums,” Naqvi posted on his official X account.

“While he was also inclined to permit fans, he emphasized that austerity measures are currently in place across Pakistan, with efforts underway to minimize fuel consumption.

“However, on the request of franchise owners, he has graciously approved the presence of fans for the PSL 11 Final. I sincerely thank him for this decision and for facilitating the fans.”

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