The Pakistan Super League continues to be mired in controversy, with a fresh off-field incident now surfacing alongside the ongoing ball-tampering row involving Lahore Qalandars.
According to reports, Punjab Police have written to PSL CEO Salman Naseer, alleging that Qalandars captain Shaheen Shah Afridi and teammate Sikandar Raza “forcefully escorted” four visitors into a player’s room at the team hotel on Saturday night — a move said to be in serious violation of security protocols.
As per ESPNcricinfo, the guests reportedly stayed in the room for nearly three hours. The situation becomes more serious considering that prior permission had already been denied.
Reports suggest that the team’s liaison officer had initially sought approval from the Pakistan Cricket Board security and anti-corruption unit to allow the visitors — who were known to Raza — but the request was rejected. A subsequent appeal by franchise owner Saleem Rana to Naseer was also turned down.
Despite these refusals, Afridi and Raza allegedly escorted the visitors into the room, reportedly overriding resistance from on-duty security staff. Punjab Police have now called for a full review of the breach and urged authorities to take necessary action to prevent such incidents in the future.
The franchise has acknowledged the development, stating that it is in touch with league officials regarding the matter.
This controversy comes at a time when Lahore Qalandars are already under scrutiny for an on-field incident. During their recent clash against Karachi Kings, the team was penalised five runs for altering the condition of the ball — a decision that proved decisive in their four-wicket defeat.
Fakhar Zaman has been accused of ball tampering in that match and could face disciplinary action, including a possible suspension, if found guilty. The incident occurred just before the final over, when umpire Faisal Afridi intervened and replaced the ball as Haris Rauf prepared to defend 14 runs.
With multiple controversies unfolding in quick succession, the PSL faces growing pressure to tighten its protocols and restore focus on cricket rather than off-field distractions.
