PSL facing economic crisis, some team owners looking to exit: Shoaib Akhtar

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has said that PSL is facing an ecomic crisis and some of owners are looking to sell ir teams. Appearing on a television show, Akhtar also claimed he didn't see Pakistan Super League (PSL) taking place for next 16 to 18 months. "I kw some people wouldn't like to hear this but some owners are looking to sell ir franchisees. I would be more than happy to provide financial and n-monetary support to keep PSL alive and to thrive, he said.

'PSL facing ecomic crisis'

Pakistan Cricket Board had to suspend fifth edition of PSL in March this year due to COVID-19 pandemic with final st of event remaining. board was also forced to organise some matches in Karachi and Lahore before empty stadiums because of virus after league was held completely for first time in Pakistan since its launch in 2016.

"I think if we do math, PSL can't be held before 16 to 18 months. World Cup will also take probably after eight months because time is needed for Coronavirus issue to settle down.

" thing is if re is proper cricket until say September, how can PSL be held in four months? I don't think board can ask for money from franchisees in this situation. As far as I kw some franchises are already ready to sell ir brand. y have offers," Akhtar claimed.

former fast bowler claimed he will t allow PSL to die and he will come forward with financial and or support to help save T20 league. "I will make sure that PSL thrives and stays alive and it gets big brands to make progress, he added. He also didn't agree with suggestions that Indian cricket board (BCCI) was working behind scenes to get World T20 Cup in Australia postponed and instead hold Indian Premier League in its window in October-vember.

"I don't think ICC, Cricket Australia or BCCI can do anything about it. This decision will come from Australian government. policies of Australian government will decide when World T20 is held. 

"And I kw for Australian government health of ir people is first without paying heed to or forces."

Akhtar said Australian government will t take decisions based on what BCCI wants.