Zalmi registers protest with PCB over PSL 9 schedule

Peshawar Zalmi has voiced their dissatisfaction with the recently unveiled schedule of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season nine, reported 24NewsHD TV channel Thursday.

As per the statement, the franchise find themselves in a state of uncertainty and has raised reservations over the allocation of matches.

"Ideally, Peshawar was anticipating the opportunity to host the upcoming PSL matches. However, the current schedule has left the team's management disheartened, as it falls short of their expectations," Zalmi stated.

The franchise said that their concerns were not adequately addressed during the scheduling process, leading to a lack of trust in the final release.

Peshawar Zalmi's administration is particularly disappointed with the distribution of only four matches in Rawalpindi and a solitary match in Karachi. This distribution deviates significantly from their initial expectations.

Even before the schedule was officially released, Peshawar Zalmi had actively sought to influence the decision-making process. The franchise had requested five matches in Rawalpindi and three in Karachi due to a strong fan base.

After the release of the schedule, it was requested to reduce the four matches scheduled in Lahore and allocate matches to the other two venues.

The administration of Peshawar Zalmi has formally communicated their reservations and concerns to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). "The franchise seeks a reconsideration of the schedule to better align with their expectations."

"Not only are Peshawar Zalmi fans disheartened with the current schedule, but the team's Commercial and Marketing Department is also facing challenges and reservations. Despite playing a pivotal role in promoting and popularising the PSL, Zalmi emphasises the need for the PCB to carefully consider the interests of all franchises in the scheduling process," the statement added.

The statement concluded with Peshawar Zalmi demanding a reevaluation of the schedule, specifically pushing for the hosting of their matches in Rawalpindi and Karachi. While the team intends to participate in PSL 9, they have signalled their intention to continue their protest until their concerns are addressed.

It must be noted that the ninth season of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) is set to commence on February 17, 2024 at the PCB’s headquarters in Lahore. The opening match will feature the two-time champions and current titleholders, Lahore Qalandars, facing off against Islamabad United, winners of the 2016 and 2018 editions.