Warner confirms return to PSL; Other Australian players may skip IPL despite resumption

Star Australian opener David Warner has confirmed he will play in the remaining matches of Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 10.

His return comes at a crucial moment, as the league continues its efforts to recover from a mid-season suspension following rising security concerns amid the recent Pakistan-India military standoff.

Warner’s confirmation is seen as a positive sign for the PSL and its fans. The tournament was halted after regional tensions escalated, prompting the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to evacuate overseas players for their safety. Since then, the PCB has been working behind the scenes to ensure a secure environment for the league’s resumption.

Meanwhile, the Indian Premier League (IPL) also faces uncertainty regarding the return of Australian players. Cricket Australia (CA) recently issued a statement saying it will support players’ individual decisions on whether or not to return to India for the IPL, which is scheduled to resume on May 17, with the final on June 3.

CA also stated that team management will closely monitor the fitness and preparations of players for the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, set to begin on June 11. Players choosing to return to the IPL will have their readiness for the WTC final assessed accordingly.

Regarding player safety, CA confirmed that the Australian government remains in contact with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to evaluate and ensure appropriate security arrangements.

It is worth noting that the IPL was suspended on May 9 following the Pakistan-India standoff, prompting several Australian cricketers to fly back home. While Warner has committed to the PSL, it remains uncertain how many of his compatriots will opt to return to the IPL ahead of the WTC final.

The future of PSL Season 10 is expected to become clearer soon, as the PCB finalises plans to resume the tournament in Pakistan.