PSL 2026: The Pakistan Super League 2026 hasn’t had the smoothest run so far, and PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi is reportedly not pleased. While the recent ball-tampering controversy drew plenty of attention, insiders say the hotel security issue involving Lahore Qalandars players has bothered him even more.
What was expected to be an exciting season has instead been overshadowed by a series of off-field and on-field problems. From players choosing the IPL over PSL to matches being held without crowds, the league has struggled to stay in the spotlight for the right reasons. Even the opening game had an unusual moment when the ball changed colour due to poor-quality kits. Soon after, ball-tampering allegations added to the drama. Now, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Sikandar Raza have found themselves at the centre of yet another controversy.
Hotel Security Lapse Draws PCB’s Attention
The situation escalated when Muhammad Faisal, DIG (Operations, Lahore), formally informed the PSL CEO about a breach in security arrangements at a five-star hotel housing all eight teams.
According to a reliable PCB source who spoke to PTI, senior officials are treating both the ball-tampering issue and the hotel incident very seriously. The Qalandars management has reportedly been told they could face action under the code of conduct.
“Chairman Mohsin Naqvi is particularly unhappy about the hotel incident, as the PCB is taking great care to ensure the event is held without incident and has even disallowed spectators for league matches at the Gaddafi Stadium for the time being,” the source said.
No Spectators Decision Linked to Security Concerns
Although the official explanation for empty stadiums has been tied to government austerity measures, there are hints that security is a major factor behind the decision as well.
“The board is unhappy about the PSL gaining traction for the wrong reasons, starting with the incident of the ball colour turning pink during the first match of the league between Hyderabad Kingsmen and Lahore, when the poor-quality kits of the former team apparently shed colour, discolouring the ball and forcing the umpires to change it midway through the match.”
A Challenging Phase for the Tournament
This season of PSL is already being held under difficult conditions. Matches in Lahore are being played without fans, and the tournament itself has been shortened due to fuel shortages and travel issues in Pakistan, linked to the ongoing West Asia crisis.
Despite the PCB’s efforts to keep things tightly organised and secure, the league has found itself constantly dealing with setbacks, both during matches and away from the field.
Shaheen Shah Afridi and Sikandar Raza Incident Adds to PSL’s Troubles
Before the ball-tampering issue even made headlines, reports had already emerged about a hotel security breach involving Lahore Qalandars captain Shaheen Shah Afridi and Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza. The two were accused of bringing visitors into their room despite being stopped by security staff.
The episode has once again put the focus on discipline and event management in PSL 2026, especially at a time when maintaining strict security protocols is more important than ever.
ALSO READ: PSL 2026: Shaheen Shah Afridi Fined PKR 1 Million for Security Protocol Breach
