PSL cancelled

The star-studded Pakistan Super League (PSL) came to an abrupt end after the emergence of seven coronavirus cases. The indefinite postponement has also caused global embarrassment after we failed to enforce the safety protocols and placed the lives of players and officials at risk.

The PCB has expressed “disappointment” over being in such a situation which could have worsened if the matches were not stopped as several foreign players had also tested positive. PCB CEO Wasim Khan admitted being unable to secure the bio-secure bubble and will now have to go through the painstaking task of regaining trust. The PCB has no one to blame for the laxity but itself for the failure to implement the safety controls.

The role of team players also cannot be denied as many were seen flouting the protocols. Even before the tournament commenced, two members of the Peshawar Zalmi were found breaching the code of conduct and were placed into self-isolation. But the team management resisted and threatened to not take to the pitch after which they were reintegrated. It was also observed that teams were staying at a busy hotel where there were frequent visitors and even a wedding a few days ago. This clearly shows how the indifference led to the embarrassment.

It is unsure when the tournament will be resumed but there are immense challenges and it is unlikely to happen any time soon. Last year, Pakistan was also forced to postpone the tournament but that was when the pandemic was in its early stages. This time around, there were strict protocols but the event was still cancelled. It is evident that we did not learn from our mistakes and did not take the safety protocols seriously just like societal attitudes against the virus.

The gradual lifting of the safety protocols is also to be blamed. The government allowed 20 percent attendance and was increasing to fifty percent in the second stage of the tournament. Many countries held cricket matches in closed stadiums and even limited crowds but there was not a single case. Pakistan is now the only country that has been compelled to cancel a tournament midway due to the virus. This will also affect the revival of cricket in Pakistan and we were expecting several teams to tour the nation. The biggest challenge will be to regain trust as major players and the public will lose confidence.