LAHORE: Stepping back from its earlier decision to hold the players’ draft ceremony for the 10th HBL Pakistan Super League in Gwadar, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Friday decided to shift the ceremony to Lahore.

The ceremony will now be held in Lahore on its original date, Jan 11.

Well-informed sources have revealed that the decision to change the venue was taken after some PSL franchises raised logistical concerns about holding the draft in the coastal city of Balochistan. Despite Gwadar’s potential as a future business hub, challenges related to accommodating foreign nationals, including franchise officials and staff, as well as ensuring smooth operations, led to the change, sources added.

According to sources, the earlier decision to hold the draft in Gwadar aimed to boost the city’s profile. However, a poor response from the franchises, who are to invite their foreign officials for the said ceremony, preferred Lahore as a venue. This factor played a significant role in the shift.

It was further noted that the PCB had not initially consulted franchises before deciding Gwadar as the venue for the player draft ceremony.

While there were no immediate objections, concerns emerged from foreign coaches and other staff, leading franchises to request a change.

Published in Dawn, January 4th, 2025