Fakhar Zaman of Lahore Qalandars has been formally accused of ball tampering during Sunday’s Pakistan Super League clash against Karachi Kings, according to an official statement from the Pakistan Cricket Board.
The controversy unfolded in the final over, with Karachi needing 14 runs to win. Fakhar was seen in a short exchange with captain Shaheen Afridi and pacer Haris Rauf, during which the ball was passed between Fakhar and Rauf.
Umpires grew suspicious and asked Rauf to hand over the ball. After consulting with the square-leg official, they imposed a five-run penalty on Lahore and replaced the ball.
That decision proved decisive. Karachi successfully chased the modest 129-run target with three deliveries remaining, thanks to a late surge from Abbas Afridi, who struck a boundary and a six to secure a four-wicket win.
During a disciplinary hearing overseen by match referee Roshan Mahanama, Fakhar denied any wrongdoing. The PCB confirmed that a follow-up hearing will take place within 48 hours, after which a final ruling will be issued.
Shaheen Afridi said the team would review video footage before commenting further on the matter.
