The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has put all of their weight behind the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026. Amid rumours suggesting that the Pakistani government could enforce a 2-day lockdown due to the fuel shortage in the nation, two high-profile players of the Lahore Qalandars have been caught violating the security protocols put in place by the PCB.
PSL security protocols breached
Qalandars’ captain Shaheen Shah Afridi and their star all-rounder Sikandar Raza allowed 4 friends to stay in the latter’s hotel room for over 2 hours. Disregarding the hotel safety and player isolation requirements.
Keeping safety and security in mind, strict protocols were placed with over 6,000 police personnel, AI-powered surveillance, and drones monitoring the players and venues. Due to serious threats from Pakistan, also in conflict with Afghanistan, the PSL 2026 has been restricted to just 2 venues, Lahore and Karachi. As of now, crowds aren’t allowed either. Special attention is being paid to teams, the hotels, and travel routes.
“We don’t know how long the current situation will persist, but hosting the PSL is essential. It is an international brand, and foreign players are involved. Everyone is eager for the PSL to go ahead,” PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi had said while confirming the tournament will be held behind closed doors.
Letter to PCB & PSL
Lahore’s Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Faisal Kamran has formally reported the breach of security to the PCB and PSL via an official letter, which will investigate the matter and take strict action against Shaheen and Sikandar. One can expect a fine at the bare minimum and perhaps even a match ban. If PCB and PSL don’t take necessary action, others will be encouraged to flaunt the rules as well.
The letter alleges that Qalandars’ Liaison Officer had sought PCB’s approval to allow 4 people to enter Sikandar’s hotel room. But his request was denied. Then the owner of Qalandars, Sameen Rana, asked the same. But even he was shot down. However, Sikandar still took them to his room, despite on-duty security personnel instructing him against it.
Qalandars’ head of media, Umar Farooq, has acknowledged the breach. “We are aware of an incident involving two Lahore Qalandars players, and are in communication with the PSL over the matter,” he told ESPNcricinfo.
