Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 8 will continue with full-strength sides.
In a statement released on Saturday, PCB confirmed that PSL 8 will continue as per schedule and all teams will field their full-strength squads.
Karachi Kings will take on Quetta Gladiators in their scheduled match at National Bank Cricket Arena (NBCA) today at 7pm. The toss will take place at 6:30pm. Both teams will field their full-strength squads.
Chairman of PCB management committee, Najam Sethi said: "The HBL PSL 8 will continue as planned after it has been established and confirmed that Friday’s incident was an isolated one, which was unrelated to cricket. We have been working very closely with all stakeholders, including the local and foreign security experts, who have provided assurances and comfort that the event can proceed as there was no threat to cricket.
“The PCB takes the safety and security of all those involved in the HBL PSL 8 very seriously. To ensure no stone is left unturned, Presidential-level security has been provided to the teams and officials. These unprecedented arrangements are similar to what were in place for international matches that have been highly praised and appreciated by the visiting teams and officials.
“The PCB remains committed to providing complete safety and security to all the participants and, as always, will continue to work very closely with the security experts and law enforcing agencies to ensure the players and officials are comfortable and being well looked after so that they can enjoy their stay in Pakistan and continue to entertain the fans and followers with their cricketing skills and talent.”
On Friday, a group of militants attacked Karachi police chief's office at Shahrah-e-Faisal. Soon after the incident, doubts were raised on future of PSL 8 matches in the metropolis.
However, an emergency meeting was called by the PCB which was attended by franchise representatives. In the meeting, PCB, in consultation with security agencies and the provincial government, took franchises in confidence.
As a result, they all agreed to continue with the ongoing edition of PSL as per schedule in Karachi.