Australian fast bowler Sean Abbott has opened up about his frightening evacuation from Pakistan during the recent military standoff between India and Pakistan, calling the experience “quite traumatic.” Abbott, who was representing Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025, was among several overseas players who were airlifted out of PAF Base Nur Khan in Rawalpindi just hours before it was struck by Indian forces.
✈️ Narrow Escape Amid Escalating Tensions
The PSL was suspended after a terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, triggered a four-day military escalation dubbed Operation Sindoor. Abbott and other foreign players were flown to Dubai on a chartered flight, narrowly avoiding a missile strike that later hit the same airbase.
“Shocking. I found it quite traumatic to be honest… Once our phones started pinging when we landed in Dubai as to what was happening since we left, it was pretty full on,” Abbott told news.com.au ahead of Australia’s Test series in the West Indies.
🏏 PSL Experience and Reflections
Despite the ordeal, Abbott praised the PSL and his time in Pakistan, calling it a “great experience” and expressing admiration for the local culture and hospitality.
“A lovely bunch of lads, and a pretty good tournament. But not the way I wanted to finish,” said the 33-year-old pacer.
He added that while he hopes to return to Pakistan someday, he would prefer not to relive such a tense situation.
🌍 Broader Impact on Cricket
The conflict not only disrupted the PSL but also briefly paused the IPL 2025 season, highlighting the vulnerability of international sporting events in conflict zones. Abbott was not among the few overseas players, including David Warner, who returned to Pakistan after a ceasefire was brokered by the United States.
Stay tuned for more updates on cricket amid global tensions.
