Why has PCB banned pro-Palestine banners at PSL games?

Security personnel outside a Pakistan Super League (PSL) match prevented a fan from bringing a pro-Palestine banner into the stadium, according to Dawn News.

On Monday, individuals carrying pro-Palestine flags to PSL games were denied entry, leading to frustration among fans. One attendee described the guards’ behavior as excessive, likening it to treating the banner as if it were a weapon, as reported on social media.

Although PSL regulations prohibit such banners, the fan argued that it was a form of political expression and might offend some individuals.

The fan, identified as Fayal, was carrying a banner reading “Palestine Will Be Free,” which she was not allowed to take inside the stadium. She was informed by security that the message was political, potentially contentious, and could upset some people. Consequently, she was instructed to either leave the banner outside or forfeit entry, according to a report by Dawn.

“They acted like I’m carrying a weapon with me,” Faryal wrote on X, after expressing her anger and frustration on the social media platform.

Pakistan has frequently expressed solidarity with Palestine and advocated for a solution to the Palestinian issue in accordance with international law.

Furthermore, the report highlighted a condition printed on the back of PSL tickets, which strictly prohibits posters, banners, or placards depicting religious, political, or racial discrimination in any form.

Although the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has not yet addressed the situation, the case of cricketer Azam Khan is relevant. In November, he was fined 50% of his match fees for displaying a Palestine flag on his bat.

However, the PCB later rescinded the fine, stating that it had been “reviewed and waived off.”