LAHORE: Lahore Qalandars batter Fakhar Zaman has been charged with a Level 3 offence under the Pakistan Super League (PSL) Code of Conduct following a ball-tampering controversy during a closely contested match against Karachi Kings. The charge relates to an alleged breach of Article 41.3 of the playing conditions, which prohibits altering the condition of the ball.
The incident drew attention in the final phase of the match when on-field umpires inspected the ball during the Kings’ chase and ruled that its condition had been changed. A five-run penalty was subsequently imposed on the fielding side, reducing Karachi’s target from 14 runs to nine in the final over and significantly influencing the outcome.
Disciplinary process underway
Fakhar Zaman has denied the charge during an initial hearing conducted by match referee Roshan Mahanama. According to officials, a further hearing will take place within 48 hours, after which a final decision on the matter is expected.
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A Level 3 offence under the PSL Code of Conduct is considered serious and can result in heavy penalties, including suspension, depending on the referee’s findings.
Match turning point in final over
The penalty proved decisive in the closing moments of the match. Karachi Kings batter Abbas Afridi capitalised on the reduced target, striking consecutive boundaries in the final over to secure a four-wicket win with three balls remaining.
Earlier, Lahore Qalandars had posted 128-9 in their allotted 20 overs after being put in to bat. Abdullah Shafique top-scored with 33 off 24 deliveries, while Haseebullah Khan added 28 runs.
In response, Karachi Kings chased down 129 despite losing six wickets. Muhammad Waseem led the scoring with 38 off 37 balls, supported by Saad Baig and Moeen Ali with 19 and 18 runs respectively.
Reaction from Qalandars camp
Qalandars captain Shaheen Shah Afridi expressed disappointment over the decision but said he was not fully aware of the specifics of the allegation at the time.
He noted that while the five-run penalty was a setback, the team would review the matter internally. Afridi also maintained that Lahore’s batting performance was competitive on a challenging pitch.
The outcome of the disciplinary proceedings is expected to determine whether further action will be taken against Fakhar Zaman.
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