Pulwama attack fallout: Frustrated by suspension of PSL broadcast, Pakistan Cricket Board terms reactions in India 'regrettable'

PSL PCB — Image Source : TWITTER: @THEREALPCB
IMG Reliance Sunday pulled out from broadcasting the Pakistan Super League in protest against the Pulwama terrorist attack.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is disappointed by the fallout of the Pulwama attack which has led to the refusal by IMG-Reliance to broadcast the Pakistan Super League (PSL) in India after portraits of Pakistani cricketers were removed from Mohali stadium.

"We have been informed by IMG Reliance that they will be unable to partner with us for the remaining HBL PSL 2019 and PCB has reserved all its rights. The PCB always had a contingency plan in place, and we are confident we will be in a position to announce the new partner on Monday after the completion of the formalities," PCB managing director Wasim Khan said.

The Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) on Sunday removed the photographs of Pakistan cricketers from various points inside the Mohali stadium as a "humble step" to show solidarity with the families of martyrs of the Pulwama terror attack.

"The PCB has also noted the recent turn of events and expresses its extreme disappointment as we have always believed and emphasised that sports and politics should be kept separate. History tells us that sports, particularly cricket, have always played a key role in building bridges between people and countries.

The prestigious Cricket Club of India (CCI) covered a portrait of Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, in a unique way of protest against the dastardly terror attack on CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama.

"Unfortunately, denying India cricket fans the right to follow HBL PSL by blocking all digital coverage as well as covering or removing a portrait of former Pakistan cricket captain and Prime Minister Imran Khan and other legendary cricketers from one of the most historic cricket clubs and venues are highly regrettable actions," he added.