Shamar Joseph removed from Islamabad United’s PSL 2026 squad as rape allegations surface against pacer

Three-time champions Islamabad United have released West Indies fast bowler Shamar Joseph from their squad for the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 season. The franchise had acquired the pacer during the player auction but was forced to release him following severe backlash from fans on social media.

The first-ever player auction for the PSL took place on February 11 at the Expo Centre Lahore, with the league expanding to eight teams as Hyderabad and Sialkot joined the existing six franchises. Players such as Usman Khawaja and Keshav Maharaj remained unsold at the auction for the upcoming season.

Fan Backlash Forces Islamabad United to Release Shamar Joseph

Islamabad United acquired the pacer for PKR 1.1 crore during the player auction, but the move quickly turned into anger among the franchise’s supporters. As soon as the signing of Shamar Joseph was announced, social media platforms were flooded with criticism.

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Fans were furious that the team had signed a player accused of serious sexual misconduct in 2025. The backlash intensified rapidly, and the pressure became undeniable, forcing the management to reconsider their decision within hours.

It is a rare instance in franchise cricket where fan sentiment has directly influenced a squad change before a player even donned the jersey. While the franchise has not released an official statement, their actions on social media have made the situation clear.

Islamabad United Share PSL 2026 Squad, Shamar Joseph Absent

Islamabad United’s decision to part ways with Shamar Joseph became evident through their activity on social media. The franchise removed the post announcing his signing and later shared an updated squad graphic that did not include his name.

A welcome post shared earlier for Joseph was deleted from all official platforms as criticism from fans continued to grow. The franchise later published its “Class of 2026” squad list, which featured overseas players such as Devon Conway and Mark Chapman, but Joseph was notably absent.

The strong reaction from supporters was linked to serious allegations made against Joseph in 2025. The West Indies pacer was accused of rape and sexual assault by 11 women, including a teenage cousin, with reports also claiming that he attempted to bribe victims to remain silent.

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Shamar Joseph has been dropped from Islamabad United squad #PSL11 pic.twitter.com/tl9lAl7whX

— TheGuyFromPindi (@TheGuyFromPindi) February 12, 2026

Shamar Joseph’s Career Across Formats

Shamar Joseph came into the limelight with his historic 7/68 at the Gabba in 2024. He has quickly become a multi-format player for the West Indies. He made his Test debut in January 2024 against Australia, and the pacer has taken 51 wickets in 11 Tests.

Joseph made his T20I debut in May 2024 against South Africa. He has taken 19 wickets in 17 T20I matches at an average of 28.11 and an economy rate of 9.21, with best bowling figures of 3/30.

In the IPL, Joseph made his debut for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in 2024, with the franchise re-signing him for ₹75 lakh at the 2025 auction.

He is currently part of the West Indies squad for the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup 2026. The right-arm fast bowler has featured in key matches against England and South Africa. He took the final wicket to seal a 30-run victory over England in the second match.

Also read: Aiden Markram abuses, but ICC punishes Mohammad Nabi in Lungi Ngidi wristband row