IMG Reliance on Sunday pulled out from broadcasting the Pakistan Super League (PSL) in protest against the Pulwama terrorist attack .
On Thursday, at least 40 CRPF paramilitary troopers were killed in a terror attack while several others are battling for their lives following what is being termed as the deadliest terrorist strike in three decades in Jammu and Kashmir.
“Due to unfortunate events a couple of days back which resulted in the death of Indian soldiers, IMG Reliance is pulling out with immediate effect, from offering broadcast production services for PSL. The incident that occured is deeply regrettable,” stated a mail addressed to Sohaib Sheikh and Kamil Khan of Pakistan Cricket Board, the content of which is in possession of PTI.
Being the only producers of the event, the development means PSL will go off air unless the PCB brings in an alternate production services, an official said.
The PCB Managing Director also confirmed the pull-out.
“We have been informed by IMG Reliance that they will be unable to partner with us for the remaining PSL 2019 and PCB has reserved all its rights. The PCB always had a contingency plan in place...,” Mr. Khan said.
The fourth edition of PSL got underway in Dubai on Thursday.
The six-team tournament is currently being held in Dubai and Sharjah before moving to Pakistan for final eight matches, including the summit clash in Karachi.
PCB unhappy with removal of pictures
The PCB has said it will take up with the BCCI the “regrettable” removal of pictures of its former players at a couple of venues in India , owing to the Pulwama terror attack, during an ICC meeting next month.
In the aftermath, the Cricket Club of India in Mumbai covered a portrait of Pakistan Prime Minister and former captain Imran Khan, while the Punjab Cricket Association removed photographs of Pakistani cricketers from various points inside the Mohali stadium.
In a statement issued late on Sunday night, the PCB’s Managing Director Wasim Khan said sports has always played a key role in defusing political tensions. The ICC meeting is scheduled to be held in Dubai but the dates are not yet out.
”...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,” Mr. Khan said in the statement.
”... covering or removing 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.
