HBL PSL 11 opener marred by unusual pink ball incident in Lahore

White Kookaburra ball began to take on a light pink hue as maroon dye from the Hyderabad Kingsmen’s uniforms transferred onto it, making it difficult for batsmen to see clearly

LAHORE: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-March 27^th, 2026) The opening match of the 11th edition of the Pakistan Super League on Friday witnessed defending champions Lahore Qalandars face off against Hyderabad Kingsmen at Gaddafi Stadium, where the white ball turned pink.

During the match, the white Kookaburra ball began to take on a light pink hue as maroon dye from the Hyderabad Kingsmen’s uniforms transferred onto it, making it difficult for batsmen to see clearly. The ball was subsequently replaced to continue the game.

Following the match, Hyderabad Kingsmen’s official X (Twitter) account congratulated Lahore Qalandars on their victory, noting: “Congratulations to the opposition on winning their first pink-ball match.

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In a post-match press conference, Kingsmen captain Marnus Labuschagne said the umpires were informed of the problem in the second over. He added that while occasional marks on the ball from pads or bats are normal, the extent of the color change during this match was unusual and hoped it would be addressed before the next game.

Lahore Qalandars’ fast bowler Haris Rauf suggested that some of the discoloration may have come from the stadium seating, though he said confirming this would be difficult.

Despite the disruption, Lahore Qalandars went on to secure a convincing victory, but the incident added an unexpected twist to the PSL 11 opener.