Fact Check- Did Overseas Players Pull Out Of PSL 2026 Due To Pakistan-Afghanistan War?

Steve Smith and Mohsin Naqvi in frame [Source: AFP, AP]Pakistan cricket is already in turmoil due to the current geopolitical situation involving Afghanistan. Tensions at the borders have forced the country to focus on its defence and armed forces, leading to a strain on natural resources and effecting the PSL too.This has now evolved into a situation where reports have emerged suggesting that international players could be flown out of the country due to security concerns, despite the PSL being scheduled to be played behind closed doors. Why Is PSL 2026 In Danger Amid Geopolitical Strains? The geopolitical tensions have prompted the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to act in accordance with government directives to limit public movement and conserve resources amid the ongoing conflict. Due to the fuel crisis, with disruptions in oil supply, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, there are shortages in the country. In response, the PCB decided to hold matches without spectators to reduce logistical demands associated with large gatherings. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated that it would be contradictory for the government to restrict public movement while allowing tens of thousands of fans to attend matches daily. Additionally, escalating security concerns have led agencies to advise against large gatherings, further influencing the decision to scale down venues and cancel the opening ceremony. These developments have also raised concerns regarding the participation of overseas players. Also Read- PSL 2026: Lahore Qalandars vs Hyderabad Kingsmen Prediction Match 1- Who Will Win Today?The Report Revealing Star Overseas Players Pulling Out of PSL 2026Recently, a report circulated widely on social media from an account named “Afghanistan Defense,” claiming that several international cricketers were leaving Pakistan due to security threats. According to the report, players such as Steve Smith, Devon Conway, Mark Chapman, Josh Philippe, and Peter Siddle were allegedly being evacuated following warnings from a militant group.Afghanistan Defense @AFGDefense BREAKING NEWS!🚨 MASSIVE BLOW TO PSL: INTERNATIONAL STARS FLEE PAKISTAN OVER SECURITY THREATS ISLAMABAD – In a shocking development for the Pakistan Super League (PSL), five high-profile international cricketers from Australia & New Zealand have abruptly pulled out of the Mar 25, 2026, 11:04 PM “The players: Steve Smith (AUS), Devon Conway (NZ), Mark Chapman (NZ), Josh Philippe (AUS), & Peter Siddle (AUS), cited severe security concerns following a direct warning issued 48 hours ago by the militant group Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, which targeted foreign participants.”“The mass exodus comes despite the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) emergency decision to move all remaining matches behind closed doors & bar spectators from stadiums. The "empty stadium" policy failed to reassure the international stars, who have reportedly coordinated their departure with their respective national boards,” the social media post read. Did Foreign Players Really Leave Pakistan Before PSL 2026? Another social media account, ‘Islamabad Post’, also echoed similar claims. However, there has been no official confirmation from the PCB regarding such developments. As it stands, these reports remain unverified, and there has been no formal announcement suggesting that international players are leaving the tournament. The rumours of Australian and New Zealand players exiting Pakistan appear to be incorrect, and PSL 2026 is expected to proceed as planned. Pakistan Cricket Take Massive Dent Due To Ongoing ConflictNevertheless, the tournament has been impacted by the broader situation. The PCB has announced that ticket refunds will be issued within 72 hours and that franchise owners will be compensated for lost gate revenue. This situation is expected to have financial implications for the PCB, as the tournament is currently being conducted as a broadcast-only event, with the possibility of fans returning to stadiums only if the regional situation improves. As of now, the tournament is set to kick off on March 26, with the opening match to be played between defending champions Lahore Qalandars and the new franchise Hyderabad Kingsmen. The two teams will face each other at 7:30 PM IST at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The PSL 2026 will conclude on May 3, with the playoff stage beginning on April 28. With all teams ready to compete, it will be interesting to see whether the worsening situation due to the ongoing conflict improves or not.Also Read- Multan Sultans Strongest XI For PSL 2026- Sahibzada Farhan To Open, Steve Smith At 3