Shaheen Shah Afridi (AP Photo/KM Chaudary)
The Pakistan Cricket Board has redoubled its efforts to ensure the smooth running of the 2026 Pakistan Super League, but a new controversy has emerged involving two of Lahore Qalandars’ top players. Amid ongoing concerns over a possible two-day lockdown due to fuel shortage in the country, skipper Shaheen Shah Afridi and all-rounder Sikandar Raza have reportedly violated strict security protocols put in place for the tournament. The duo allegedly allowed four individuals to stay inside Reda’s hotel room for more than two hours, in violation of isolation and safety guidelines. The PSL operation is currently being conducted under tight security arrangements, with over 6,000 police personnel deployed along with AI-based surveillance systems and drone surveillance.
Due to security concerns and regional tensions, the tournament was limited to two venues – Lahore and Karachi – and is being held behind closed doors without spectators. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi had earlier stressed the importance of hosting the league despite the situation. “We don’t know how long the current situation will last, but hosting the PSL is essential. It is an international brand, and foreign players participate.
“Everyone is keen to move forward in the PSL,” he said. Following the reported violation, Lahore Deputy Inspector General of Police, Faisal Kamran, formally notified the PCB and PSL authorities through an official letter. The matter is now expected to be investigated, with possible disciplinary action. At the very least, a fine could be imposed, while a suspension from the match remains a possibility. Concerns have also been raised that failure to act could set a bad precedent for other players. The letter also claims that the team’s liaison officer had initially sought permission from the PCB to allow the four visitors into the hotel room, but the request was denied. A similar request from franchisee Samin Rana was also rejected. Despite this, Reza allegedly went ahead and allowed the visitors, even after security personnel advised against it. Confirming his awareness of the situation, Qalandars Media Head, Omar Farooq, said: “We are aware of an incident involving two Lahore Qalandars players, and we are in contact with the Premier League regarding this matter.” With the tournament already being held under tight security measures, the incident raised new questions about discipline and adherence to protocols within team environments.