Lahore, 31 March 2026 – Lahore Qalandars’ batter Fakhar Zaman has been suspended for two matches in the ongoing Pakistan Super League 11 (PSL 11). The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed the suspension after Zaman was found guilty of a Level 3 offence under Article 2.14 of the PSL Code of Conduct.
The incident occurred during the final moments of the Lahore Qalandars vs Karachi Kings match on 29 March at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. Umpires penalised Lahore Qalandars five runs and changed the ball before the last over of Karachi Kings’ innings. Fakhar Zaman was charged for allegedly altering the condition of the ball in breach of the rules.
On-field umpires Shahid Saikat, Faisal Khan Aafreedi, TV umpire Asif Yaqoob, and fourth umpire Tariq Rasheed filed the complaint. Zaman denied the charges and contested them during a full disciplinary hearing conducted by Match Referee Roshan Mahanama. The hearing included Lahore Qalandars Captain Shaheen Shah Afridi, Team Director Sameen Rana, and Team Manager Farooq Anwar.
The PCB explained that Article 2.14 prohibits actions like deliberately roughening the ball, applying artificial or non-permitted substances, lifting the seams, or scratching the ball surface. The Level 3 offence carries a minimum one-match suspension and a maximum two-match suspension. Zaman received the maximum two-match ban.
Lahore Qalandars will next face Multan Sultans on 3 April at Gaddafi Stadium and Islamabad United on 9 April at the National Bank Stadium, Karachi. Zaman will miss both matches due to the suspension.
The decision can be appealed to the HBL PSL Technical Committee within 48 hours of receiving the written determination. PCB officials emphasised that the ruling is in line with maintaining fair play and the integrity of PSL 11.
In other news read more about PSL 2026: Fakhar Zaman Faces Ball Tampering Allegation, Hasan Ali Fined For Rule Violation
Fans and analysts continue to debate Fakhar Zaman’s suspension, noting the impact on Lahore Qalandars’ upcoming fixtures. The incident serves as a reminder of strict regulations governing ball handling and conduct in professional cricket.
