Daily Times

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif on Monday gave the go-ahead to hold the Pakistan Super League (PSL) final in Lahore. The decision was taken after a high-level security huddle, following a string of targeted attacks across the country, particularly in the capital city ofPunjab, which claimed nearly 100 lives. “Law and order committee, and provincial, federal security institutions, have decided to hold the PSL final in Lahore,” the Punjab government said in a statement. “Hundred percent fool-proof security will be provided for the PSL final,” said Shahbaz. “The decision has been taken keeping in mind the interests of Pakistan,” he added. He boasted that nefarious designs of terrorists and their facilitators would be foiled and expressed the hope that the Punjab government would come up to the expectations of the masses.

Due to security concerns following a recent wave of terror attacks in different parts of the country, there had been speculation that the PSL final may not be held in Pakistanafter all. Events and activities have been banned in areas surrounding Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium until March 5. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Shaharyar Khan had earlier said despite recent terror attacks in Lahore, the PCB was eager to hold the high-profile PSL final in the provincial capital. However, he had categorically stated that the final decision in this regard would rest with the government.

“Pakistan wants to show everyone we are a peaceful nation,” PSL chairman Najam Sethi told reporters after the announcement. “The nation has shown resolve and courage… this would not have been possible without the support of the Pakistani people and the media.” Sethi said the tickets for the final would go on sale from Tuesday(today). “We have to wait till March 3 to know which foreign players will travel to Lahore, as we still do not know which two teams will qualify,” said Sethi while referring to attendance of foreign players. He also praised the Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz for the decision and said all provincial and federal authorities, including security forces, were ‘on the same page.’ Meanwhile, Punjab Law Minister Rana Sanaullah revealed the itinerary of the final. “We have prepared a security plan for the final. It would be a day-night contest,” he said. “We will start the match at 1630 PST and the closing ceremony will conclude at 2300 PST.”