A ruling came down Thursday when a trio panel denied Fakar Zaman’s challenge over his two-game penalty for altering the ball. Evidence weighed heavy, so the original call stood firm. Observers saw it coming – signs had been clear since the PSL clash days earlier. During that Sunday night game at Gaddafi Stadium, actions caught under code 2.14 sparked the entire process. The league’s statement confirmed he questioned the referee’s choice to sideline him. That contest pitted Lahore Qalandars against Karachi Kings. Proof presented later backed what officials first suspected.
“The appeal was heard today by the PSL Technical Committee comprising Professor Javed Malik, Dr Mumraiz Naqshband and Mr Syed Ali Naqi. Pursuant to conducting a de novo inquiry, reviewing all evidence, and hearing submissions from relevant individuals, the Committee has dismissed the appeal and upheld the two-match ban imposed by Match Referee Roshan Mahanama,” the report quoted the release as saying.
As per Article 2.14, it relates to “changing the condition of the ball in breach of clause 41.3 of the PSL Playing Conditions”.
A first-time Level 3 violation leads to at least one match suspension, possibly two. The PSL Technical Committee’s ruling stands as the ultimate resolution under the conduct rules, effective for everyone involved.
A moment late in the game changed things – five runs went to the opposing team after officials ruled against Lahore Qalandars. Then came a fresh ball, swapped just ahead of the last over bowled by Karachi Kings.
A complaint came from the match officials: Shahid Saikat, Faisal Khan Aafreedi, plus video referee Asif Yaqoob and standby official Tariq Rasheed. Wrongdoing? Fakhar says no – instead choosing to face the claim at an official conduct review allowed by the rules.
Finding his place at the center of things, match official Roshan Mahanama led the review, going through each piece of proof while Fakhar spoke up when given the chance. Sitting nearby that day – Shaheen Shah Afridi, wearing the captain’s role for Lahore Qalandars, alongside Sameen Rana who guides the team’s direction, plus Farooq Anwar handling daily coordination.
Lahore Qalandars face Multan Sultans first, that game landing Friday, April 3, under the lights of Gaddafi Stadium. Next up comes Islamabad United, meeting them Thursday, April 9, this time at National Bank Stadium in Karachi.
