Pakistan Super League Controversy: Zimbabwe skipper Sikandar Raza has distanced himself from the ball-tampering allegations that rocked the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 on March 29. The Lahore Qalandars overseas recruit said that the umpires did not give an exact reason but asked them to step aside as they were penalised five runs before the final over. From defending 14 runs, Qalandars was asked to defend nine. Haris Rauf couldn’t do it and after Karachi Kings’ win, Qalandars opener Fakhar Zaman was called in by match-referee for a meeting where he denied all charges.
"I think the exact communication is yet to be conveyed. The umpires asked us to move aside as they were speaking with the other umpire. When we asked for reasons, they told us to step aside for the time being," Raza said at the post-match press conference as quoted by Geo Super.
"The exact answer can be better provided by the umpires themselves, or the other umpire who had the walkie-talkie," he added.
Raza said that he did not attempt to make any changes to the condition of the ball. He recalled getting instructions to not trying and get the dew off the ball by rubbing it under the shirt. He feels that there is a need to see the evidence before jumping to conclusions but assured that he had no part in any conversations regarding the alleged ball-tampering.
"I think I can only speak for myself. I mean, there was never an attempt from my side to change the condition of the ball or even to even try," Raza explained.
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"As far as I remember, I was fielding at long-on where there was a bit of dew. We were requested not to try and dry the ball under the shirt, so I started doing it with the sleeves.
"Unless we see proof of which player they are asking about or accusing, it is a big decision.
"I have just gone to the changing room, and I can assure you that I have been called in for an inquiry, so I think that means I'm safe."
Raza on controversy around hosting guests late night
Meanwhile, Raza saw him at the centre of another controversy. The all-rounder hosted four guests in his hotel room till 1:25 AM despite security personnel at the team’s hotel denying his request and informing him that it is a violation of security breach. In the press conference, he clarified that he hosted friends and family like he has in the past during his PSL stints. He also defended skipper Afridi who helped him usher the guests into the hotel despite much resistance.