Fakhar Zaman Mohsin Naqvi. Image Credits: AFP
Fakhar Zaman has once again come under intense scrutiny following allegations of ball tampering during a Pakistan Super League (PSL 2026) encounter against Karachi Kings.
On March 30, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) formally charged the Lahore Qalandars batter with a Level 3 offence under Article 2.14 of the PSL code. This regulation addresses actions that alter the condition of the ball. Consequently, the charge has placed Zaman at the center of a developing controversy.
Fakhar Zaman faces ball tampering allegation
It is important to note that the situation unfolded in the final over of Karachi’s chase. At that stage, Karachi required 14 runs to secure victory. Zaman appeared to press an object onto the ball after receiving it from captain Shaheen Afridi and teammate Haris Rauf.
Immediately afterward, the umpire stepped in, replaced the ball, and imposed a penalty. However, the umpires intervened after inspecting the ball, which led to its replacement and the awarding of five penalty runs to Karachi Kings. As a result, the momentum shifted significantly in Karachi’s favour.
Meanwhile, Fakhar Zaman denied the allegations during an initial hearing conducted by match referee Roshan Mahanama. A further hearing is scheduled within 48 hours, ensuring that due process continues.
Fakhar Zaman’s previous controversy resurfaces
In addition, the current episode has revived attention on a similar incident during a T20 World Cup match in Dallas in 2024. During that game between USA and Pakistan, observers noted unusual handling of the ball by Fakhar Zaman. He was seen placing the ball under his jersey for a prolonged period, accompanied by visible finger movements.
Such actions appeared inconsistent with standard ball polishing techniques. Typically, players use one hand to shine the ball using sweat. In contrast, the use of both hands under the jersey raised concerns among USA players and support staff.
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As the match progressed, the ball began to reverse noticeably, which made batting increasingly challenging. Although the game eventually ended in a tie and was decided in a Super Over, the earlier sequence remained a point of concern.
Following the Dallas incident, USA players promptly reported their concerns to the fourth umpire. Furthermore, captain Monank Patel documented the matter in his post-match report, while a verbal complaint was submitted to the match referee. Despite these actions, no formal charge was issued at that time.
In isolation, the earlier episode remained an unproven suspicion. However, the recurrence of similar patterns has intensified the current scrutiny. At the same time, it is essential to note that Zaman has not been found guilty in either instance. The final outcome will depend on the ongoing proceedings.
Lahore Qalandars register their first defeat of PSL 2026
Meanwhile, Lahore Qalandars registered their first defeat of the PSL 2026 season in this match. Batting first, they managed a modest total of 128 runs, supported by contributions from Abdullah Shafique (33) and Haseebullah Khan (28).
In response, Karachi Kings completed the chase in the final over, securing victory with three balls remaining, thanks to Muhammad Waseem.
Looking ahead, Lahore Qalandars are set to face Multan Sultans in their next group-stage fixture at the Gaddafi Stadium on Friday, April 3.
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