PSL 2026: Fakhar Zaman Files Appeal Against Two-Match Ban Over Ball-Tampering Charge

Pakistan batter Fakhar Zaman was slapped with a two-match ban by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) after being found guilty of ball-tampering during a disciplinary hearing recently. According to Geo News, Zaman has now filed an appeal against the suspension with the PSL Technical Committee.

What Exactly Happened?

The incident took place during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) match between Lahore Qalandars and Karachi Kings. Before the start of the final over of the game, the ball changed hands between Shaheen Afridi, Fakhar Zaman, before being finally handed over to the bowler Haris Rauf. The on-field umpire was keeping a close eye on the incident and promptly asked Rauf to toss the ball to him and upon examination, adjudged that the condition was altered and asked for a replacement. 

The side was later handed a five-run penalty bringing down the equation to 9 required off the final over. Abbas Afridi smashed a four and a maximum to seal the win. 

The match officials including on-field umpires Faisal Khan Aafreedi, Shahid Saikat, alongside TV umpire Asif Yaqoob and fourth umpire Tariq Rasheed filed the charge against the Pakistan batter. 

The hearing that ollowed with match referee Roshan Mahanama concluding Zaman had changed the condition of the ball. It was later found that he had breached article 41.3 of the PSL code of conduct and slapped with the maximum penalty of two-match ban.

“Match Referee Roshan Mahanama conducted the disciplinary hearing and made the determination after reviewing all evidence and providing an opportunity of personal hearing to Fakhar. Lahore Qalandars Captain Shaheen Shah Afridi, Team Director Sameen Rana, and Team Manager Farooq Anwar were also present during the hearing,” PCB said in a statement.

While the opening batter has made the appeal but if the decision is upheld then Fakhar will not be part of Qalandars’ PSL 2026 fixtures against Multan Sultans (April 3) and Islamabad United (April 9).

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