In pictures: PSL final marks return of cricket to Karachi after nine years

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In pictures: PSL final marks return of cricket to Karachi after nine years

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(Web Desk) – Karachi’s National Stadium welcomed the return of cricket after nine long years as it hosted the final of the Pakistan Super League 3 on Sunday.

Former champions Islamabad United once again lifted the Pakistan Super League trophy at National Stadium after defeating Peshawar Zalmi by three wickets.

Amid tight security and presence of high profile spectators, including Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, the much anticipated match brought political parties together as politicians across the political spectrum welcomed the return of cricket in Pakistan.

Massive crowds showed up at the PSL 3 final on Sunday at the National Stadium as the city celebrated the return of cricket to its grounds after almost a decade.

A colourful closing ceremony featuring remarkable performance by singers including Ali Zafar, Strings, Shehzad Roy and Aima Baig rocked the stadium before the final match between Peshawar Zalmi and Islamabad United.

People queued near China Ground to watch the final match of PSL 3. Photo: OINN

People arriving at the National Stadium showing their tickets for the final match of PSL 3. Photo: OINN

Women arriving at Hassan Square to watch the PSL 3 final. Photo: OINN

Sindh Minister for Information and Transport, Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, arrives at Hassan Square through shuttle service to watch the PSL 3 final. Photo: OINN

A female police personnel checking bags at Hassan Square on Sunday ahead of the PSL 3 final match. Photo: OINN

A helicopter patrolling over the National Stadium during the final of PSL 3. Photo: OINN

People form a queue at walk through gates at China Ground to board shuttles ahead of the final match of PSL 3. Photo: OINN

Strings performs as Peshawar Zalmi skipper Darren Sammy and Hasan Ali dance to their music during the closing ceremony of PSL 3 at National Stadium. Photo: OINN

Pop singer Shehzad Roy performs during the closing ceremony of PSL 2018 in National Stadium. Photo: OINN

People cheering during the closing ceremony performances at National Stadium in Karachi. Photo: OINN

Ali Zafar performs during the closing ceremony of PSL 3 final match at National Stadium. Photo: OINN

Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi watching PSL 2018 final in National Stadium. Photo: OINN

Islamabad United skipper JP Duminy tosses the coin ahead of the final of PSL 3 at National Stadium. Peshawar Zalmi captain Darren Sammy and former Pakistani captain and commentator Ramiz Raja are also present. Photo: OINN

Islamabad United ends stay of Peshawar Zalmi’s batsman L A Dawson during the final of PSL 2018 at National Stadium. Photo: OINN

Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah waves to the crowds upon arrival at the ground to watch PSL 3 final at National Stadium. Photo: OINN

Team of Islamabad United pose for a group photo with the PSL trophy after defeating Peshawar Zalmi by three runs in the final match of PSL 3 at National Stadium Karachi. Photo: OINN