Courtesy: Cricbuzz
The Pakistan Super League (PSL) got a green light from Abu Dhabi for hosting its remainders starting from June 05. After a lot of discussions between the Abu Dhabi authorities and the PCB, both bodies came to a conclusion agreeing to various norms. However, the PSL franchises still have a big hurdle to face ahead in the tournament i.e. the scorching heat of Abu Dhabi which habitually cross 40 degrees celsius.
Although the PCB and the UAE have come in front with some combats to help PSL franchises fight the heat. Coconut water, ice collars and vests, and more breaks are some of the tactics which will help players in extreme weather in Abu Dhabi.
Abu Dhabi has never hosted upper-class cricket during this period of the year. However, PSL which was supposed to conclude in March got postponed due to the ongoing pandemic has left with no other window. Although, the board have decided to schedule most of the matches during the night when the weather is a bit cooler however the six double-headers will be played by 5 PM at the latest with the temperature still hovering around 35 degrees celsius.
“This will be difficult but not impossible. We all are working on making plans for how to cope with such conditions, especially for fast bowlers. We have a strategy to use coconut water as much as we can to maintain body temperature. We need to keep the boys hydrated and avoid the risk of cramping. Since most of the games will be played at night, we are not worried about heat strokes”, Mohammad Akram, Peshawar Zalmi head coach, told ESPNcricinfo.
The PSL is scheduled to kick start from June 5 and will host the tournament final on June 20.