LAHORE, Pakistan: The final of the 11th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) will be played in front of a full crowd after government approval, offering a major boost to fans and franchises ahead of the tournament’s showpiece clash.
The final is scheduled to take place at Gaddafi Stadium on May 3, ending weeks of matches held under spectator restrictions.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed the development, revealing that the decision followed consultations with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and other stakeholders.
Dear cricket fans, I requested Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to allow spectators in the stadiums. 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,… pic.twitter.com/jgp96vRiRe
— Mohsin Naqvi (@MohsinnaqviC42) April 25, 2026
“Dear cricket fans, I requested Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to allow spectators in the stadiums. While he was also inclined to permit fans, he emphasised that austerity measures are currently in place across Pakistan, with efforts underway to minimise fuel consumption,” Naqvi wrote.
“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,” he added.
Policy shift after restrictions
Earlier, PSL matches were held behind closed doors as part of broader government austerity measures aimed at reducing fuel usage and public movement amid economic challenges.
The PCB had also limited fixtures to Karachi and Lahore to manage operational costs, drawing concerns from franchises over the absence of crowds.
Franchise owners later urged authorities to reconsider, highlighting the importance of fan presence to the league’s atmosphere.
Naqvi also praised law enforcement agencies for ensuring the smooth conduct of the tournament and confirmed that the match schedule remains unchanged. He added that franchises will receive gate revenues, while the PCB will cover related expenses.
