PCB blocks PSL 2026 broadcast in India amid rising cricket tensions
PCB has decided not to sell PSL 2026 broadcast rights in India amid rising political tensions and strained cricket ties between the two countries.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken a major call ahead of PSL 2026 by deciding not to sell the league’s broadcast rights in India. This is a clear shift from last season, when Sony Sports Network aired PSL 2025. The decision means Indian fans will not get official access to PSL matches this year. It comes at a time when cricket ties between the two nations remain strained.
The move follows Pakistan’s decision to boycott its T20 World Cup 2026 group match against India. That call was made on political grounds after talks between PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi and the Pakistani government. Earlier, Pakistan had also refused to travel to India for the tournament, citing security concerns. As a result, the ICC decided to co-host the World Cup with Sri Lanka.
Reports in Pakistan suggest the PSL broadcast ban in India is linked to current political tensions. The Mohsin Naqvi-led PCB is believed to have taken a firm stand. While this blocks PSL viewership in India, it may also hurt the PCB financially. Indian audiences form a big part of cricket viewership in the region.
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In February last year, Sony Sports Network had secured the media rights for PSL 2025. Along with the league, the network also picked up rights for several Pakistan home series. These included white-ball series against Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka, plus a full tour by South Africa. The Afghanistan series was later cancelled due to cross-border tensions.
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For PSL 2026, the league is set to run at the same time as IPL 2026. With the IPL dominating Indian screens, PSL visibility was already expected to be limited. The decision to keep the league off Indian television further reduces its reach. This could result in noticeable revenue losses for the PCB.
Another key update is that some PSL franchises are avoiding direct player signings this year. Instead, they are saving money for the PSL 2026 auction, which will take place next week during the ongoing T20 World Cup. Meanwhile, India-Pakistan cricket relations remain uncertain. Pakistan’s World Cup boycott means they lose two points, while the ICC and BCCI also miss out on one of cricket’s biggest fixtures.
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