Hundreds of cricket fans were left waiting in long lines on Tuesday as a ticketing issue marred the return of spectators to the Pakistan Super League (PSL). The Twenty20 tournament had been played behind closed doors for a month due to the Iran war, but fans were finally allowed back for the playoff matches.
Ticket Distribution Delays
League CEO Salman Naseer explained that tickets were printed in Lahore and were supposed to arrive in Karachi via cargo by 1 p.m., but the flight was canceled. This caused delays for fans queuing ahead of the first playoff match between Islamabad United and Peshawar Zalmi at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi.
"We received lots of complaints, but the problem was that we got very short time," Naseer said. "Prior to this only the final was announced (for fans) and our whole focus was on Lahore." He added, "Passion of fans is there … My only fear is that spectators will get the tickets, but they might not able to watch the complete game."
Fans' Excitement Undimmed
Despite the delays, around 5,000 spectators were inside the stadium when the match began. Jawad Ahmed, a fan waiting in line, said, "I came here to support Peshawar Zalmi, especially Babar bhai (brother). Had we got more matches in Karachi, we could have got more opportunities to see players in action. Now they have allowed one game, but you can see our excitement. The rush is in front of you."
Peshawar captain Babar Azam did not disappoint his fans, scoring an aggressive 103 off 59 balls, including 12 fours and four sixes, to lead his team to a total of 221-7. Islamabad was bowled out for 151 in 18.4 overs, losing by 70 runs. Peshawar secured a place in Sunday's final.
Background of Spectator Return
The PSL had started behind closed doors due to soaring fuel prices related to the Iran war, with the government urging people to restrict travel. Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi said it wouldn't be right to have 30,000 fans attending matches while the government asks the public to stay home. Permission for spectators to attend the four playoff games was granted just 24 hours before the qualifier. The final will be held in Lahore next Sunday.
Last week, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved a request from franchise owners to open the doors to the final, before giving approval for the remaining three playoff games on Monday. Islamabad will face the winner of Wednesday's eliminator between Hyderabad Kingsmen and Multan Sultans on Friday for the second spot in the final, with all three matches in Lahore.
