Cricket News, Fakhar Zaman, Cricket Updates
Fakhar Zaman has been handed a two-match suspension after being found guilty of ball tampering during Lahore Qalandars’ four-wicket loss to Karachi Kings in a Pakistan Super League (PSL) match on Sunday night.
The decision was confirmed following a disciplinary hearing led by match referee Roshan Mahanama, who ruled that Fakhar had breached Article 41.3 of the PSL Code of Conduct. The hearing was necessary as Fakhar had initially contested the charge.
Under PSL regulations, a Level-III offence carries a suspension ranging from one to two matches for a first-time violation. Fakhar received the maximum penalty.
The incident occurred at the start of the final over of Karachi Kings’ run chase. On-field umpire Faisal Afridi requested the ball from Haris Rauf after it had passed between Shaheen Shah Afridi and Fakhar. Following a detailed discussion with fellow umpire Sharfuddoula, the officials deemed the ball had been tampered with and replaced it.
In an official statement, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed that Mahanama reached his decision after reviewing all available evidence and giving Fakhar a chance to present his case. The hearing was attended by Lahore Qalandars captain Shaheen Shah Afridi, team director Sameen Rana, and team manager Farooq Anwar.
Fakhar retains the right to appeal the decision within 48 hours of receiving the written verdict, as per PSL rules.
As a result of the suspension, Fakhar will miss Lahore Qalandars’ upcoming matches against Multan Sultans on April 3 and Islamabad United on April 9.
