Karachi Kings vs Lahore Qalandars: Fakhar Zaman Faces Level 3 Ball Tampering Charge in PSL 11

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 11 has just been the subject of the largest controversy to date. In the sixth game at Gaddafi Stadium, Fakhar Zaman, a star of Lahore Qalandars, was charged with Level 3 offence of ball tampering. The must-win match with Karachi Kings backfired in the last few moments and left fans and specialists shocked.

The play was staged in the second inning when Karachi Kings had to score 14 runs in the final over. Raising suspicions over the way the ball was handled by Fakhar Zaman and his colleagues, on-field umpires Faisal Afridi and Sharfuddoula Saikat halted the game to investigate the matter. The officials affirmed that the condition of the ball was changed causing an instant five-run punishment on Lahore Qalandars.

Match-Turning Penalty and PCB Statement

This decision changed the game’s complexion instantly. Karachi Kings’ target dropped from 14 to 9 runs. Abbas Afridi capitalized on the momentum, smashing a boundary and a six to secure a 4-wicket victory. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed that Fakhar Zaman violated Article 41.3 of the PSL playing conditions.

Disciplinary Hearings and Potential Ban

Match referee Roshan Mahanama held an initial hearing where Fakhar Zaman denied the charges. As a Level 3 offense, this remains one of the most serious breaches in the PCB code of conduct. A final verdict is expected within 48 hours. If found guilty, the opener faces a potential 1–2 match suspension.

Hasan Ali Fined for Conduct Breach

In a separate incident during the same match, Karachi Kings’ pacer Hasan Ali received a fine. The match referee imposed a 10% match fee penalty for a Level 1 offense involving provocative celebrations. Unlike Fakhar, Hasan Ali admitted his mistake immediately, resolving the matter without further hearings.