England rejects PCB's request to 'host' PSL 10 matches

The Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) plan to host the play-off matches and final of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 in England has been rejected by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), Express News reported on Tuesday.

According to the publication, the ECB cited the unavailability of stadiums as the reason for their refusal, stating that their fields are already booked for other events.

The development has left the PCB scrambling for alternative venues, with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) emerging as a likely option, Express News said.

However, hosting the matches in the UAE poses its own challenges, particularly the scorching heat in May, which could make it difficult for players to compete.

The proposed dates for PSL 10, from April 10 to May 25, also clash with the Indian Premier League (IPL), raising concerns that key foreign players may opt out of the Pakistani league.

On the other hand, franchise owners have expressed concerns over unresolved issues, including profit sharing, which were highlighted in a letter sent to the cricket body "some time ago".

"Although the PCB has not responded to the letter, a senior official recently reached out to the owners to request an early governing council meeting to address these concerns," the publication noted.