A high-level meeting on Tuesday approved staging Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 matches in Peshawar this year. The tournament is scheduled from March 26 to May 3.
The meeting took place at Corps Headquarters in Peshawar to review the province’s security situation. Civil and military officials evaluated readiness before giving the green light for matches.
Participants included Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, the national security adviser, Peshawar corps commander, and other senior officials. They paid tribute to civilians and security personnel killed in terrorist incidents across the country.
The meeting also approved implementing the provincial government’s governance model in Malakand Division as a pilot. Federal and provincial authorities will monitor the initiative, which, if successful, will expand to Khyber, Orakzai, and Kurram districts.
A special sub-committee, led by the KP chief minister, will conduct monthly review meetings. The committee includes public representatives, the Peshawar corps commander, the chief secretary, inspector general of police, provincial officials, and federal representatives. Its mandate covers development projects and security operations in targeted districts.
Officials decided to continue strict measures against illegal SIM cards, explosives, and extortion. They also approved phased profiling of vehicles without customs clearance.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who also chairs the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), highlighted KP’s contribution to cricket. He noted that 60 percent of national team players hail from the province.
“We are working with KP on domestic cricket and will bring positive developments for talent and sports in Peshawar,” Naqvi said. He added that follow-up meetings of the apex committee had already taken place, with results to be shared soon.
Naqvi also commended KP police for their role in operations following the February 6 Islamabad suicide attack, which killed over 30 people and injured dozens.
Regarding Pakistan’s decision to boycott a scheduled game against India at the T20 World Cup 2026, Naqvi clarified that the PCB had no personal agenda. He said the move aimed to highlight perceived injustices faced by Bangladesh and that Pakistan had no additional demands.
In conclusion, the green light for PSL 11 matches in Peshawar reflects the government’s commitment to sports development and security preparedness. The newly formed sub-committee is expected to ensure smooth execution and safeguard players and spectators.
