Lahore Qalandars captain Shaheen Afridi has found himself at the centre of controversy again. Afridi, along with franchise's Zimbabwe recruit Sikandar Raza have been accused of breaching security protocols at their team hotel in Lahore.
On the eve of their clash against Karachi kings, Afridi and Raza were hosting four guests in the Zimbabwe captain's room till 1:25 AM.
However, the Lahore Qalandars duo informed the police and sought permission to host the guests at around 10:35. Team owner Sameen Rana's request was denied. The team owner had also asked for permission from PSL CEO Salman Naseer but it was denied again.
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While the requests were being denied, police had warned Afridi and Raza. Later, DIG Muhammad Faisal notified PSL CEO and Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) anti-corruption unit about the cricketers' refusal to adhere to the rules and ignoring multiple warnings.
The incident took place at the five-star hotel where all eight PSL franchises are staying.
Raza jumps in Afridi’s defense
In the post-match presentation on March 29, Raza revealed that he wasn't aware of the protocols and was just doing what he has for the last four years at the PSL. He defended Afridi and revealed that the ID cards of his family members and friends were shown to the security personnel.
Another controversy rocks Lahore Qalandars
On March 29, Fakhar Zaman was accused of ball-tampering. Lahore Qalandars were slammed with a five-run penalty by the on-field umpires just before the final over was bowled. Lahore Qalandars ended up losing the match by four wickets. Later, Zaman denied all charges levelled by the umpires and match referee Roshan Mahanama. A final verdict will be made public within 48 hours. The opener may face a ban of at least one match.
After the defeat, Raza distanced himself from the ball-tampering controversy.
"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 said.
"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," he added.