Lahore Qalandars fines Shaheen Shah Afridi over security concerns
Published - 30 Mar 2026, 11:13 PM | Updated - 30 Mar 2026, 11:46 PM
Table of Contents
The Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 has already started, and there has been controversy that is revolving around defending champions Lahore Qalandars since last night. Now the franchise have fined Shaheen Shah Afridi INR 10 lakhs for violating security protocols. The team captain has been involved in some security breaches ahead of the game against the Karachi Kings.
According to a letter from the Punjab Police to PSL CEO Salman Naseer, Afridi and Zimbabwe Sikandar Raza were accused of "forcefully escorting" people to Raza's room, which violated security regulations.
Sikandar Raza defended Shaheen Shah Afridi
The letter stated how, after PCB security personnel and then Qalandars owner Sameen Rana declined pleas to permit the visits, the pair ignored the refusals and escorted the visitors despite security staff resistance.
However, Raza responded to claims of a security violation involving him and Lahore Qalandars captain Shaheen Shah Afridi during the Pakistan Super League. The allegations involved four "unauthorised" individuals getting access to the team's hotel room.
Raza denied the allegations against Afridi, claiming that the four guests were close family members and long-time friends, and that Shaheen Shah Afridi was merely helping him by bringing them to his room at Raza's request.
Shaheen Shah Afridi had no connection with the breaches
Raza also stated that he was with Shaheen Shah Afridi in the lift and that no aggressive escort occurred. He further mentioned that his visitors, some of whom he has known for 19 years, included his wife and children, whom he rarely sees due to their permanent presence in Pakistan.
Previously, sources within the Lahore Qalandars confirmed the visit's basic details but denied any forced admission. The police letter, which was posted on social media, also stated that the guests stayed in the room for three hours, contradicting Raza's assertion about a 40-minute visit.
Umar Farooq, media head of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), reported to ESPNCricinfo that the board was aware of the situation involving the two players and was collaborating with the PSL on the issue.
Lahore Qalandars apologised to PSL
Lahore Qalandars provided a detailed statement to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). The franchise acknowledged the significance of the situation, but claimed it was a misunderstanding rather than a purposeful violation of security rules.
🚨 FINE FOR SHAHEEN AFRIDI. 🚨
— Sheri. (@CallMeSheri1_) March 30, 2026
- Lahore Qalandars have fined Shaheen Afridi 10 lakhs for violating security protocols. pic.twitter.com/yBEzofjCLi
The Lahore Qalandars acknowledged the importance of security personnel in maintaining a safe atmosphere for players, officials, and fans. They expressed gratitude. The franchise apologised for the negative impact on the Lahore Qalandars' and the Pakistan Super League's (PSL) reputation caused by the incident.
Lahore Qalandars and Shaheen Shah Afridi cannot stay away from the controversy, as during the match against Karachi Kings, Qalandars opener Fakhar Zaman was caught tamoering the ball. Though he has denied the charges, there was a five-run penalty given to Karachi Kings, and the ball was also changed.
Fakhar Zaman might be handed a two-match ban. There have been two rounds of meetings following the incident. However, no actions have been taken place over the player.
Also Read: IPL Points Table 2026: Updated Standings, Orange Cap, Purple Cap After RR vs CSK Match 3
About the Author
I (Anirban Bose) am a creative Social Media Manager and Sports Journalist with hands-on experience i...
