PSL Set to Resume Amid Security Fears, Kane Williamson Unlikely to Return

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Kane Williamson: The Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 is scheduled to resume on May 17 after being abruptly halted due to a drone strike near Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

The attack, which occurred on May 8 just before a match between Peshawar Zalmi and Karachi Kings, forced an immediate postponement of the game and threw the rest of the tournament into uncertainty.

According to reports, 37 overseas players had been part of the league before the interruption. While the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) initially considered relocating the remaining fixtures to the UAE, they later decided to continue the tournament in Pakistan following a de-escalation of regional tensions.

Despite improved security assurances, several foreign players are reportedly hesitant about returning. Notably, former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson is among the eight Kiwi cricketers expected to skip the remainder of the tournament due to safety concerns. This development could significantly impact their respective PSL teams.

However, not all international stars share the same reservations. Australian opener David Warner has confirmed his intention to return and complete his stint with Karachi Kings. Speaking to the Sydney Morning Herald, Warner said he was committed to finishing the season, offering a boost to his franchise and the league's image.

Confirming the restart, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi posted on X (formerly Twitter):
"The PSL 2025 will resume on May 17, with the final on May 25. The League will pick up from where it left off, six teams with zero fear."

The board also announced that the remaining league matches will be played in Rawalpindi, while the playoffs and final will take place in Lahore.

Meanwhile, the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, which was also temporarily halted due to the cross-border situation, is set to resume this weekend.

As the PSL prepares to move forward, the spotlight remains on how the PCB handles player safety and whether key international names will return to the fold.