What’s the Deal with PSL Crowds in Karachi?
When Usman Khan struck a single down to mid-off, securing Multan Sultans’ spot in their fourth consecutive PSL final, the National Stadium Karachi fell into an eerie silence. It wasn’t because the fans were indifferent to the outcome, but rather because there were hardly any fans present. The clash between the top two teams – Sultans and Peshawar Zalmi – unfolded in front of a nearly vacant stadium, a stark departure from the league’s claim of being the second-best in the world.
The sparse attendance in Karachi, unlike the bustling crowds at the other three venues, has been a recurring issue throughout the tournament. However, the problem has become even more pronounced since the start of Ramzan earlier this week. The matches now commence at 9 PM local time, stretching well past midnight to accommodate the gap after sunset iftar.
With all upcoming games slated for Karachi, the prospect of crucial knockout matches – including the final – taking place amidst empty stands has raised concerns among PSL stakeholders, as it could tarnish the tournament’s prestige.
No Plans to Relocate Remaining Matches
Despite the disappointing turnout, officials associated with the PSL defend the decision to host the playoffs in Karachi. “We’ve adopted a home and away format, and Karachi is home to the Karachi Kings and the Quetta Gladiators,” explained a senior official to ESPNcricinfo. While the Kings are out of the running, there’s no consideration of relocating any matches outside of Karachi due to logistical hurdles. Although venue changes have occurred in the past on short notice, the PCB deems such a move impractical given the current circumstances.
Why Aren’t More People Attending?
While acknowledging the unexpectedly low turnout, officials remain optimistic about better attendance at the remaining three matches. They point to the popularity of Ramzan cricket in Karachi, noting that attendance may improve as spectators adjust to fasting routines. However, it remains uncertain how much of an impact this will have, especially since the upcoming matches are scheduled consecutively, coinciding with the early days of Ramzan. Nevertheless, being held over the weekend might sway some fans to attend.
Is a Monday final the issue for PSL?
But the most puzzling issue, and one about which official explanations have proved in short supply, concerns the day of the PSL final. Breaking with all previous tradition and standard procedure to ensure finals fall on the weekend, the PSL has a rest day this Sunday, with the final taking place on the following Monday – a working day – instead.
Sources within the PSL’s organisation insisted there were multiple reasons for the unconventional scheduling. They cited a desire to accommodate maximum home games for all teams “without breaking momentum”, while also attempting to avoid back-to-back fixtures for one of the sides playing the final. There is a confident assumption within the PCB that interest in the PSL final can be taken for granted, regardless of the day, time, or city it is held in.
The next three days will reveal how well-placed that confidence is.
