Low attendance at PSL 2024 final in Karachi sparks social media criticism

Karachi: Criticism has been mounting over the low attendance at the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024, with the issue persisting during the final match between Multan Sultans and Islamabad United held in Karachi on Monday.

Numerous social media users shared images from the National Stadium in Karachi, revealing mostly empty stands.

Discontent with the lack of turnout was evident, with some comparing the turnout unfavorably to the attendance figures of the Women's Premier League (WPL) final in India, which drew over 29,000 spectators.

During the playoffs, the minimal crowd presence also drew criticism from various experts.

Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram expressed his disappointment, describing the absence of fans in Karachi as "embarrassing." "It was embarrassing to see no crowd in Karachi. There was no crowd, literally no crowd for last night's match," Akram remarked during an interview with A Sports when questioned about the vacant stands in the stadium.

In the final showdown, Islamabad United secured victory over Multan Sultans by two wickets to claim the PSL 2024 title. Martin Guptill emerged as the top-scorer with 50 runs, while Imad Wasim sealed the match in style.

Multan Sultans set a target of 159 runs for the loss of nine wickets in their innings, with Usman Khan contributing a half-century and Iftikhar Ahmed providing a late surge. Imad Wasim showcased a stellar bowling performance for Islamabad United, claiming five wickets, while skipper Shadab Khan chipped in with three wickets.