LAHORE — Fakhar Zaman has been suspended for two matches in the ongoing HBL Pakistan Super League after breaching the PCB Code of Conduct. The offence occurred during the March 29 match between Lahore Qalandars and Karachi Kings at Gaddafi Stadium. Officials classified it as a Level 3 violation under Article 2.14, related to ball tampering.
The incident unfolded in the final stages when umpires imposed a five-run penalty on Lahore Qalandars and ordered a ball change before the last over of Karachi Kings’ innings. Fakhar denied the allegation and requested a full disciplinary hearing, which was conducted by match referee Roshan Mahanama. Evidence was reviewed and the charge was upheld after hearing the player’s defence.
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Match officials involved in the charge included on-field umpires Shahid Saikat and Faisal Khan Aafreedi, TV umpire Asif Yaqoob, and fourth umpire Tariq Rasheed. Representatives of Lahore Qalandars, including captain Shaheen Shah Afridi, were also present during the hearing. Article 2.14 covers actions that alter the condition of the ball, including scratching, tampering with seams, or applying foreign substances.
As a Level 3 first-time offence, the Code allows a one- to two-match ban, with Fakhar receiving the maximum penalty. He will miss Lahore Qalandars’ upcoming matches against Multan Sultans on April 3 in Lahore and Islamabad United on April 9 in Karachi. The PCB stated that appeals must be filed with the HBL PSL Technical Committee within 48 hours.
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The suspension marks a major setback for Lahore Qalandars, who will need to adjust their line-up for key upcoming fixtures. Officials emphasized that strict enforcement of the Code of Conduct is vital to maintaining fair play and integrity in the PSL, sending a clear message to players about compliance with cricket regulations.