PSL set to collide with IPL over scheduling window as PCB proposes new plans for upcoming seasons

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) could collide with the cash-rich Indian Premier League (IPL) over scheduling window from upcoming seasons, per the latest report. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) met owners of all six PSL franchises, proposing several new plans, including hosting the PSL in the April-May window from next season onwards. Among the other proposals, increasing the salary cap of certain marquee overseas players and choosing neutral venues for PSL playoffs, including the UK, UAE and Australia, were also discussed.

PSL colliding with the most successful and followed franchise-based T20 League could hamper it in many ways, with the board remaining aware of it. The report suggests instead of competing with the IPL, all concerned members during the discussion agreed that PSL would rather ‘co-exist’ with the Indian Premier League.

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Although no official word is out on what the final plan would be, Lahore Qalandars – the two-time winners are said to oppose this idea. Other team owners are also undecided and not in favour of some or all proposals. Meanwhile, given Pakistanis scheduledto host the ICC Champions Trophy next year during the February-March window, PSL 10 will take place from April 7 to May 20.

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Besides, the ESPNcricinfo report further suggests the PCB proposed this window as permanent for hosting PSL for a few years. Although the weather conditions during May could work against this idea, PCB feels instead of hosting it during the tight window from December to February, where it’s already competing with four other leagues worldwide, the April-May window could fit for many reasons.

While a small window during September was also discussed, considering the Ramadan calendar from next year onwards, PSL’s new schedule could benefit all, from the players to the broadcasters to the revenue and sponsorship models.

Moreover, considering all marquee overseas players would go under the hammer during the IPL auction, the PCB proposed the franchises go all-out to attract certain top foreign players with an increased salary cap (USD 300,000-plus) as compared to the current one (USD 220,00). For this, the board also proposed the PSL draft to take place after the IPL auction, having clarity over the status of overseas cricketers.

Neutral venues on PCB’s mind

To spice things up and also considering the weather conditions in this part of the world during the proposed new window, the board listed three potential venues – UK, UAE and Australia.

Considering May is too hot for the UAE and cold for Australia, the UK is the best optionleft.

However,a final decision will be madeduring the formal PSL governing council meeting due at the end of May.