Watch: Babar Azam and Marnus Labuschagne release white dove as peace gesture after Pakistan mediates war halt during HYDK vs PSZ PSL 2026 clash

The first leg of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026, held at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, has been completed, with the action now moving to the National Stadium in Karachi. Multan Sultans stand at the top of the points table with four victories in five encounters at a net run rate of +0.941. 

Meanwhile, Rawalpindiz and Hyderabad Kingsmen are at the bottom of the points table and are yet to open their account, having experienced four defeats each in as many clashes. Karachi Kings are in second position with three wins in as many games at a net run rate of +0.486.

Unique moment sees players promote peace on field

In a moment of the PSL 2026, Peshawar Zalmi captain Babar Azam and Hyderabad Kingsmen, Marnus Labuschagne, joined hands to promote world peace amidst the war conflict between Iran and the United States of America. The gesture used to convey the message was unusual, and it led to a strong message on social media.

It began at the toss ceremony between Zalmi and Kingsmen as they gathered to represent their respective sides. The PSL CEO, Salman Naseer, was also part of the special moment. To throw the message, Naseer, Babar, and Marnus decided to release a white dove, which is used as a symbol of peace.

Watch the video here: 

The gesture left the fans confused, with social media believing that the PSL could have tried a different method rather than releasing a white dove.

Gesture comes amid backdrop of recent political tensions

Before the start of the PSL, the committee decided to stage it behind closed doors with empty stands as Islamabad United owner, Ali Naqvi, gave an absurd explanation. He suggested that the restrictions on the crowd were tied to tight security and logistical demands, as they are informed of the sensitive international discussions, including the ceasefire-related engagements.

See Also: Watch: Prasidh Krishna hands GT nervy victory in IPL 2026

Pakistan has acted as an intermediary between Iran and the US for the last few weeks, passing messages between the two. In the historic relationship with Iran, they share a border and regularly refer to their brotherly relationship with the country.

As for the US relations, their president, Donald Trump, has referred to the head of Pakistan’s armed forces.

Fans react as cricket and politics intersect once again

Here is how the fans have reacted to cricket and politics being intersected once again-