PSL final in 'curfew like situation' will dampen Pakistan's image: Imran Khan

Islamabad: Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan has opposed the ruling dispensation's decision to host the Pakistan Super League (PSL) final in Lahore, stating that hosting the cricket match in 'curfew like situation' would dampen the country's image.

"If something inimical happened on the final day then it will prove to be the end of international cricket in Pakistan," the Express Tribune quoted Khan as saying.

The cricketer-turned politician said that international cricket would only resume in Pakistan if the government overcomes the menace of terrorism and deteriorating law and order situation instead of making 'cosmetic security arrangements'.

"You can hold a match even in war-hit Syria or Iraq by deputing 60,000 security personnel to guard a crowd of 30,000 visitors inside a stadium, but by blocking all electronic signals and devises and after curtailing routine life of the city," the former Pakistan skipper added.

Last Monday, the Punjab Government gave approval to the PSL final to take place in Lahore after thorough evaluation of security conditions in the country following a series of bomb blasts in the preceding weeks.

Three English players from the Quetta Gladiators had earlier announced that they would not be participating in the PSL final in Lahore on March 5 over security issues.

Cricketers Kevin Pietersen, Tymal Mills and Luke Wright took to Twitter to make the announcements.