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LAHORE: Defending champions Lahore Qalandars have been dealt a significant blow after opener Fakhar Zaman was suspended for two matches in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 following a Level 3 breach of the tournament’s Code of Conduct.
The decision was confirmed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Monday after an incident during Lahore’s high-intensity clash against Karachi Kings at the Gaddafi Stadium.
According to the PCB, Fakhar was found guilty of violating Article 2.14, which relates to altering the condition of the ball in breach of the league’s playing conditions. The offence occurred in the closing stages of the match, shortly before the final over of Karachi’s run chase.
During that moment, the on-field umpires inspected the ball, ruled that its condition had been changed, and imposed a five-run penalty on Lahore Qalandars, in addition to replacing the ball, a decision that proved crucial in Karachi’s narrow victory.
The charge was brought forward by umpires Shahid Saikat and Faisal Khan Aafreedi, along with TV umpire Asif Yaqoob and fourth umpire Tariq Rasheed.
Fakhar Zaman denied the ball-tampering allegation and opted for a full disciplinary hearing.
Match referee Roshan Mahanama conducted the proceedings, reviewing the evidence and granting the player a personal hearing before reaching a final verdict. Lahore captain Shaheen Shah Afridi, team director Sameen Rana and manager Farooq Anwar were also present during the hearing.
Under PSL regulations, a Level 3 offence carries a minimum penalty of a one-match ban and can extend up to two matches, with Fakhar receiving the maximum sanction.
The suspension means Fakhar will miss Lahore’s upcoming fixtures, including their clash against Multan Sultans on April 3 at Gaddafi Stadium and the subsequent encounter against Islamabad United on April 9 in Karachi.
