PCB confirms shifting PSL from Qatar to UAE

KARACHI: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially confirmed that the venue of inaugural edition of Pakistan Super League has been shifted from Qatar to the United Arab Emirates.

PCB initially named Qatar as the host for Pakistan’s T20 Cricket extravaganza which is scheduled to be held from 4th from 24th February. However, after fresh negotiation with, PCB moved the tournament to UAE.

According to PCB announcement, the PSL matches will be played at Dubai and Sharjah.

“Pakistan Super League (PSL) will be held from 4th Feb to 24th February 2016 in Dubai and Sharjah, UAE, during which a total of 24 matches will be played over a 21-day period,” said the PCB in a statement.

According to Najam Sethi, chairman of PSL governing council, the latest tally of foreign player signing consents standing at an impressive 132.

“The teams will comprise the top T20 players from the world. Players will be selected through a draft process in December,” said Najam Sethi

"There is a pool of top coaches also from which franchise owners will be able to pick and choose", he added.

Some of the big names who have consented to play the PSL include Kevin Pietersen, Chris Gayle, Kieron Pollard, Andre Russell, Dwayne Bravo, Luke Wright, Shakib al Hassan, Lasith Malinga, Sunil Narine, and Angelo Mathews.

Five teams - Quetta, Karachi, Peshawar, Lahore, and Islamabad - will be vying for glory in the first edition of PSL.

"The PSL has already floated tenders for broadcasters and producers. Tendering process for sponsorships will be held in the second week of October. Franchise owners will be inducted in November after which the foreign and local players will be drafted and teams constituted", said Najam Sethi in the statement released by PCB.

PSL will offer up to $1 million in prize money. Each franchise will be able to draft players and coaches for the team within a budget of $1 million.