Just two days before PSL 2026 kicks off on March 26, the Tehrik e Taliban Pakistan has issued a chilling warning to international cricketers. The TTP faction, Jamaat ul Ahrar, directly urged all overseas players to leave Pakistan immediately. The group claims it cannot guarantee player safety amid the country’s volatile security situation. The threat pushes the tournament deeper into crisis after the PCB already scaled it back to two cities behind closed doors.
What Did the TTP Say About PSL 2026
TTP spokesperson Asad Mansoor called the tournament a political spectacle. He accused organisers of mocking the suffering of people in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. The group vowed not to let anyone compromise the dignity of the people for political optics.
The statement directly targeted overseas cricketers. It warned them that ongoing military operations and civil unrest make Pakistan unsafe for hosting international sport. The group urged all foreign players to prioritise personal security and pull out immediately.
How has the PCB responded to the threat?
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi insists PSL 2026 will go ahead as planned. However, the board has already made drastic changes to the format. Naqvi confirmed that matches will take place only in Lahore and Karachi. The original six-city schedule no longer exists. All games will take place without spectators.
Key Changes to PSL 2026 Due to Security Concerns
- Tournament cut from six cities to only Lahore and Karachi
- All matches are taking place behind closed doors
- Opening ceremony cancelled
- Full ticket refunds are going out within 72 hours
- PCB absorbing financial losses for franchises
The armed group earlier named David Warner, Steve Smith, and Daryl Mitchell in a direct warning. Meanwhile, multiple players have ditched their PSL contracts to join the IPL instead. The Australian government also asked its players to avoid Peshawar due to border tensions with Afghanistan.
The PCB maintains that security arrangements meet international standards. Players have already started arriving in Pakistan. However, the TTP warning raises fresh doubts about whether all overseas stars will honour their commitments before the first ball on March 26.
