Ball-Tampering Scandal: Fakhar Zaman Gets 2-Match Ban in Pakistan Super League

LAHORE: Fakhar Zaman, the opening batter of Lahore Qalandars, has been suspended for two matches in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL 11) after being found guilty of a Level 3 breach of the Code of Conduct.

The decision was officially confirmed by the Pakistan Cricket Board following a disciplinary hearing related to an incident that occurred during Lahore Qalandars’ clash against Karachi Kings on March 29 at Gaddafi Stadium.

🔍 Incident Details

The controversy unfolded during the final stages of the match, when on-field umpires penalised Lahore Qalandars for altering the condition of the ball.

As a result:

Karachi Kings were awarded five penalty runs
The ball was immediately replaced before the final over

The charge was brought forward by:

Umpire Shahid Saikat
Umpire Faisal Khan Aafreedi
TV Umpire Asif Yaqoob
Fourth Umpire Tariq Rasheed

⚖️ Disciplinary Hearing & Verdict

Despite denying the allegations, Fakhar Zaman requested a full disciplinary hearing under PSL rules.

The hearing was overseen by match referee Roshan Mahanama, who reviewed all evidence and conducted a personal hearing before delivering the final verdict.

Zaman was charged under:

➡️ Article 2.14 of the PSL Code of Conduct
➡️ Related to changing the condition of the ball in violation of playing conditions

A Level 3 offence carries:

Minimum: 1-match ban
Maximum: 2-match ban

The referee imposed the maximum penalty of two matches.

🏏 Team Management Present

During the hearing, key representatives from Lahore Qalandars were also present, including:

Captain Shaheen Shah Afridi
Team Director Sameen Rana
Team Manager Farooq Anwar

📅 Upcoming Matches Impact

Following the suspension, Fakhar Zaman will miss crucial upcoming fixtures:

vs Multan Sultans — April 3 (Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore)
vs Islamabad United — April 9 (National Bank Stadium, Karachi)

This could be a major setback for Lahore Qalandars as they aim to defend their PSL title.

⚠️ Appeal Option

According to PSL regulations, the player has the right to appeal the decision within 48 hours by submitting a request to the PSL Technical Committee after receiving the written ruling.

📝 Final Words

The suspension of Fakhar Zaman highlights the PSL’s strict stance on maintaining fair play and discipline. As the tournament progresses, this incident serves as a reminder that any breach of conduct can have serious consequences, even for top players.