Lahore, March 31, 2026: Fakhar Zaman, a key batter for Lahore Qalandars, has been suspended for two matches over ball-tampering charges during a recent Pakistan Super League (PSL) fixture against Karachi Kings, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed on Tuesday.
According to the PCB, Fakhar was found guilty of a Level 3 offence under Article 2.14 of the Code of Conduct, which pertains to altering the condition of the ball in violation of league regulations.
The incident occurred during the closing stages of the March 29 match at Gaddafi Stadium, when on-field umpires penalised Lahore Qalandars five runs and ordered the ball to be changed ahead of the final over of Karachi Kings’ innings.
Television footage showed Fakhar along with Lahore captain Shaheen Shah Afridi and fast bowler Haris Rauf in a brief exchange, during which the ball was passed between Fakhar and Rauf before being inspected by the umpires.
Following consultations among officials—including on-field umpires Shahid Saikat and Faisal Khan Aafreedi, TV umpire Asif Yaqoob, and fourth umpire Tariq Rasheed—the penalty was imposed. The decision proved crucial, as Abbas Afridi struck a boundary and a six in the final over to seal a four-wicket victory for Karachi Kings with three balls remaining.
Fakhar denied the allegations and contested the charge during a full disciplinary hearing conducted by match referee Roshan Mahanama. The decision to suspend him was made after reviewing evidence and hearing all parties involved, including team officials.
Under PSL regulations, a Level 3 offence carries a minimum one-match ban and can extend up to two matches. Fakhar has been handed the maximum penalty and may file an appeal with the PSL Technical Committee within 48 hours.
Reacting after the match, Shaheen Shah Afridi said the team would review the situation, adding that they would assess the circumstances surrounding the five-run penalty.
Fakhar Zaman will now miss Lahore Qalandars’ upcoming matches against Multan Sultans on April 3 in Lahore and Islamabad United on April 9 in Karachi.
