Fakhar Zaman receives two-match PSL ban for alleged ball tampering infraction

Pakistan International Cricketer Fakhar Zaman Banned for Two Matches

Fakhar Zaman, a 35-year-old Pakistani cricketer, has been suspended for two matches of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) following an investigation into allegations of ball tampering during a match against Karachi Kings. According to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Zaman was found guilty of a Level 3 offence and will serve his penalty.

The incident occurred on Sunday night at the Lahore leg of the tournament, where Zaman was seen altering the condition of the ball in accordance with video footage reviewed by match referee Roshan Mahanama. The umpire subsequently awarded five penalty runs against Qalandars, who lost the match by four wickets.

Additionally, Shaheen Shah Afridi, captain of Lahore Qalandars, has been fined $3,500 for breaching tournament security protocols. Meanwhile, Haris Rauf and Faisal Afridi, a member of the umpiring team, have also faced disciplinary action following their involvement in inspecting the ball’s condition.

The Pakistan Super League is being held behind closed doors due to fuel supply concerns related to the ongoing Iran war. The tournament has been reduced from six venues to two, with matches taking place at Lahore and Karachi.

Separately, fast bowler Naseem Shah has received a significant fine for criticising a politician on social media.

Source: Al Jazeera