Lahore Qalandars have been hogging the spotlight for their players’ on and off-the-field actions during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026. While a final verdict on Fakhar Zaman’s alleged ball-tampering is yet to be made public, Qalandars skipper Shaheen Afridi has been fined PKR 1 million (INR 3.29 lakh) for violating the security protocol by allowing teammate Sikandar Raza’s guests into the teams’ hotel despite several warnings from the local police and security personnel.
"In the interest of maintaining discipline and demonstrating accountability, the franchise has taken a voluntary and proactive step by imposing a fine of PKR 1 million on Shaheen Shah Afridi for his involvement. Lahore Qalandars has also formally communicated a detailed response, along with its observations on the matter, to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)," read a release from the Qalandars.
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"The franchise expressed its sincere appreciation for the efforts of security personnel, recognising their essential role in ensuring a safe and secure environment for players, officials, and spectators. While underscoring that the matter arose from a misunderstanding rather than any deliberate attempt to violate established procedures, Lahore Qalandars reiterated its full respect for all security protocols," added the statement.
No punishment for Raza
No action has been taken against Raza whose guests entered the hotel at around 10:35 PM. Despite repeated denial of requests, Raza and Afridi didn't agree. The police then informed the PSL CEO Salman Naseer, PCB and board's anti-corruption unit about the incident.
Earlier, speaking after the defeat to Karachi Kings, Raza had said that if anyone needs to be blamed, it’s him and not Afridi as they were his guests. He said that he has been hosting his guests in a similar way for the past four years. He also claimed that the guests stayed at the hotel 40 minutes, contrary to the letter written to PSL CEO and PCB.
Qalandars’ next clash
Amidst controversies, Qalandars are placed second on the points table with one win and a loss each but a better net run rate (NRR) than all teams. Qalandars will go up against Multan Sultans in their next clash on April 3.