Our Web Desk
LAHORE: Pakistan’s seasoned batsman Fakhar Zaman has been suspended for two matches in the HBL Pakistan Super League after being found guilty of a Level 3 offence during Lahore Qalandars’ fixture against Karachi Kings, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said on Tuesday.
The charge relates to a breach of Article 2.14 of the PSL Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, following an incident late in Sunday’s match at Gaddafi Stadium.
Tensions flared in the closing stages when on-field officials penalised Lahore Qalandars by awarding Karachi Kings five runs and ordered a ball change before the final over of the visitors’ innings — a decision that proved pivotal in a tightly contested match.
The charge against Fakhar was levelled by umpires Shahid Saikat, Faisal Khan Afridi television umpire Asif Yaqoob and fourth umpire Tariq Rasheed.
Fakhar denied the allegation and opted to contest it at a full disciplinary hearing conducted in accordance with the code.
Match referee Roshan Mahanama presided over the hearing and reached his decision after reviewing the evidence and granting Fakhar a personal hearing, the PCB said in a statement.
Also present at the proceedings were Lahore Qalandars captain Shaheen Shah Afridi, team director Sameen Rana and manager Farooq Anwar.
The suspension is a setback for Lahore Qalandars as they prepare for a crucial phase of the tournament. Fakhar, one of their key top-order batters, will miss upcoming fixtures including the clash against Multan Sultans on April 3 at Gaddafi Stadium and the away game against Islamabad United on April 9 in Karachi.
The PCB did not disclose further details of the conduct that led to the sanction, but Level 3 offences are considered serious breaches under the code and can carry heavy penalties, including suspension.
Lahore Qalandars will now have to reshuffle their lineup as they look to maintain momentum in the competition without one of their most experienced players.
