In a surprising statement that has puzzled the cricket community, Mohsin Naqvi, the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), has provided a new explanation for the absence of spectators at the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026. Naqvi recently told local media that while Pakistan is managing its fuel situation well, India is facing a serious petrol shortage with long queues at gas stations.
This statement marks a drastic change from the PCB’s previous position. In late March, Naqvi had attributed the ban on spectators and the decision to limit matches to Lahore and Karachi during the PSL to a national fuel shortage in Pakistan caused by conflicts in the Middle East.
During discussions about the potential return of fans to stadiums for the tournament’s crucial phase, Naqvi shifted focus. While mentioning plans to meet Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif regarding spectator attendance, Naqvi surprisingly pointed to an alleged oil crisis in India, a claim that has received widespread criticism.
“We have been striving for peace. We anticipate peace soon. The PM is also working towards that. We have a different viewpoint. There is an oil crisis in India with long queues at gas stations. We do not face such issues here,” Naqvi stated.
Naqvi’s remarks have sparked backlash on social media, with many questioning the validity of his claim about an oil crisis in India. Contrary to Naqvi’s assertion, fuel prices in India have remained stable in April 2026, without any reported supply disruptions or long queues at petrol pumps.
This explanation underscores a communication gap within the PCB. While Naqvi had previously apologized to fans and emphasized energy conservation measures, his recent comments suggest a contrasting narrative where Pakistan is portrayed as faring better than India, despite PSL matches being held without spectators while the IPL in India welcomes full crowds.
The controversy surrounding Naqvi’s statements has led to criticism and ridicule online, highlighting the irony of the situation. As the PSL approaches its final stages, the mystery of the empty stands persists, with matches set to resume on Wednesday and continue until May 3.