The Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 tournament was on the brink of chaos. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had to quickly relocate the remaining matches outside the country due to rising tensions. Foreign players were swiftly evacuated to their home countries via the UAE. Bangladeshi cricketer Rishad Hossain shared his harrowing experience of escaping Pakistan.
A Narrow Escape
Speaking to reporters at Dubai Airport, Rishad Hossain revealed, “We were lucky to have made it out alive. I’m feeling relieved now.” He disclosed that the airport they departed from was attacked just 20 minutes after their departure. “It’s a scary and sad story. We’re grateful to be alive,” he said.
Fellow Players Reacted with Fear
Rishad Hossain described how his fellow Bangladeshi cricketer, Nahid Rana, was visibly shaken. “Nahid was quiet, probably stressed. I told him to stay calm and hope for the best.” He also shared a heart-wrenching moment when English player Tom Curran broke down in tears upon learning that Pakistan’s airports were shut.
Behind the Scenes
The PCB had initially planned to host the remaining matches in Karachi. However, player concerns over safety prompted a meeting with Mohsin Naqvi, leading to the decision to relocate the matches to Dubai. Unfortunately, the UAE eventually declined to host the tournament.
- The PCB swiftly evacuated foreign players from Pakistan.
- Rishad Hossain shared his close call with reporters in Dubai.
- The decision to relocate the PSL matches was made after player concerns.
The ordeal highlighted the challenges faced by the PCB in hosting international cricket events amid regional tensions.