It was largely promised prior to the commence of PSL’s second season that the tournament final would take place in Pakistan, in Lahore. Many rooted for the decision for a Lahore-finale while others doubted the move for security reasons.
The event did saw a heap of opposition in the aftermath of the tragic Lahore blast. It equally summoned strict security measures in all corners of Lahore, and final of a cricket tournament as coveted and as hyped as PSL seemed like a no-brainer.
Source: World for Travel
But the Punjab government and PCB have joined hands in taking measures to make the PSL finale a safe and secure event. However, since terrorism looms large around something as big as PSL finale, it rushes fear in some people, exclusively the foreigners who are already prone towards heeding media propagandists and be threatened by real events.
Source: Sky Sports
Quetta Gladiators, the first team to reach the final in Lahore consists of 3 major international players namely, England legend, Kevin Pietersen, English batsmen Luke Wright and bowler Tymal Mills.
It’s with a heavy heart I will not be coming to Lahore. I have a young family and for me a game of cricket is just not worth the risk 1/3
— Luke Wright (@lukewright204) February 28, 2017
I’m sorry as I know how much it means to you all and hopefully in the future the safety will not be in doubt to come play there. 2/3
— Luke Wright (@lukewright204) February 28, 2017
Thanks once again to @TeamQuetta and @thePSLt20 for having me. Such lovely people. Great tournament with so much talent. See u soon ???????? 3/3
— Luke Wright (@lukewright204) February 28, 2017
Here are Mills and Luke Wright speaking to the fans…
Mills and Pietersen have put through star-studded performances that partly makes the PSL 2017 a memorable one. However, when it came to the decision of joining the final in Lahore, all the foreign players refused.
We think these players are fair enough on their part and here’s why:
- They’re away from home, their security and safety must be the first priority. Their families must be vulnerable, leaving them in no position for taking a risk.
- There’s actually a chance that God forbid something happens amid the hype of a Lahore finale.
- They have already contributed much to this league; their vulnerability must not be compromised.
Source: PSL Live Streaming | Pakistan Super League 2017
…and here is how many Pakistanis agree with it!
If you’re so mad at international players for dropping out from PSL final mock current political n military leadership not those players.
— عبداللہ حصان (@abdullahassaann) March 1, 2017
For the love of God, guys! Be thankful these international players were a part of PSL, their concerns are valid. Stop being rude to them.
— Hifza Khan (@hifzakhann) March 1, 2017
Obviously every Pakistani want International cricket back in Pakistan but this is not the perfect time. Respect foreign players decision.
— Ahmed (@AhmedDamn) March 1, 2017
We’re all saddened to hear the international players refusing to come to Lahore for the final but you really can’t diss them for it.
— Professor Moriarty (@aneeqa_shaikh) March 1, 2017
Pakistanis !! Pls refrain from ridiculing international players of PSL.Improve law & order situation.Then every team will come to Pakistan.
— Taimur Ali K Mohmand (@iamTribalKhan) March 1, 2017
Fuck you all who are judging @KP24 @lukewright204 and other int’l players for not coming to Lahore
Shukar manao ke woh itna bhi khel liye
— Moochar (@AsliBinLaden) March 1, 2017
@lukewright204 Good decision. Your life and family is important than this. Pakistan particularly Lahore is not safe for cricketers.
— Asmat Khan Kakar (@asmatkhan19) March 1, 2017
those criticising @KP24,@lukewright204 for not coming to #LHR, had they criticised terrorists with same vigour, things would’ve been better.
— Farrukh Abbas (@Farrukh_Abbas12) March 1, 2017
Thank you @KP24 ,@lukewright204 & @tmills15 for adding value to PSL & as a Pakistan i apologise for putting you in such an awkward position.
— Osama. (@ashaqeens) March 1, 2017
In fact we should apologise to them for putting them under such an awkward position & we should be grateful for them for being part of PSL.
— Osama. (@ashaqeens) March 1, 2017
We cannot be more grateful to Kevin Pietersen, Tymal Mills and Luke Wright for gracing PSL 2017 with their commendable performances. Hoping to see them again in the 3rd installment of PSL.
Let’s give Quetta Gladiators a shout out ahead of the final in Lahore!
