PSL ball-tampering row rekindles old doubts: Fakhar Zaman in the dock for a 2nd time
Fakhar Zaman faces a Level 3 ball-tampering charge in the PSL after an incident during Lahore Qalandars' match against Karachi Kings. This controversy echoes a similar episode during the T20 World Cup against the USA, where Zaman's actions also raised suspicions. Both incidents occurred under pressure, with no proven offense yet.
Pakistan batter Fakhar Zaman has found himself at the centre of a fresh ball-tampering controversy in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), with the latest incident reviving questions over a similar episode during the 2024 T20 World Cup. Zaman, along with Shaheen Shah Afridi and Sikandar Raza, has denied any wrongdoing following Lahore Qalandars’ four-wicket defeat to Karachi Kings at the Gaddafi Stadium. However, the 35-year-old has been charged with a Level 3 offence under the PSL Code of Conduct for allegedly altering the condition of the ball.
Fakhar Zaman’s latest PSL ball-tampering row The controversy unfolded just before the final over of Karachi Kings’ chase, when they required 14 runs to win. Zaman was seen in discussion with Afridi and bowler Haris Rauf before the umpires intervened. On-field umpire Faisal Afridi called for the ball after it had passed between Rauf and Zaman.
Following inspection, officials ruled that its condition had been altered, awarding Karachi five penalty runs and replacing the ball. The equation was reduced to nine off the final over, which Karachi chased down comfortably. Zaman has denied the charge before match referee Roshan Mahanama, with a verdict expected soon.
Afridi also distanced himself from the incident, stating he was unaware of any change to the ball, while Raza echoed similar sentiments. The Pakistan Cricket Board has taken a serious view of the matter, with officials indicating that strict action could follow if the charges are proven. Echoes of doubt from PAK vs USA T20 World Cup clash The latest controversy has drawn attention back to an incident during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup match between Pakistan and the USA in Dallas.