Fakhar Zaman challenges PCB ban, files appeal against two-match suspension in PSL ball-tampering row: Report

Fakhar Zaman has reportedly submitted an appeal against the suspension to the PSL Technical Committee.

Updated on: Apr 1, 2026, 16:51:56 IST

Written by Aratrick Mondal

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Pakistan cricket team batter Fakhar Zaman has maintained his denial of involvement in the alleged ball-tampering incident that rocked the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) and has, accordingly, reportedly filed an appeal against the Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) decision to suspend him for two PSL matches.

Fakhar Zaman was banned for two PSL matches (PTI)

According to a Geo News report, Fakhar filed an appeal against the decision. The development came a day after PCB found him guilty of altering the condition of the ball during Lahore Qalandars' four-wicket loss to Karachi Kings on Sunday at the Gaddafi Stadium. In fact, the 35-year-old has denied the charge and contested it at a disciplinary hearing, but match referee Roshan Mahanama upheld the offence and imposed the maximum sanction permitted.

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"Fakhar Zaman has been suspended for two HBL PSL matches after he was found guilty of a Level III offence," the PCB said in a statement on Tuesday. He was charged under Article 2.14 of the Code, which relates to “changing the condition of the ball in breach of clause 41.3 of the PSL Playing Conditions.”

Sources confirmed to the Pakistani media outlet that the Lahore Qalandars batter has "submitted an appeal against the suspension to the PSL Technical Committee."

Was Fakhar involved in ball-tampering incident?

The episode happened at the start of the final over of Karachi's chase in Lahore, when Lahore captain Shaheen Shah Afridi and fast bowler Haris Rauf were involved in a discussion with Fakhar. It was then that the batter was caught on camera allegedly tampering with the ball.

Having suspected it, the on-field umpire asked Rauf for the ball, and after a prolonged discussion with his colleague, Lahore was penalised five runs, and the ball was changed.

Based on PCB's decision, Fakhar will miss Lahore's next two matches. They are scheduled to face Multan Sultans on Friday, 3 April, at Gaddafi Stadium, followed by a fixture against Islamabad United on Thursday, 9 April, at the National Bank Stadium, Karachi.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Aratrick Mondal
Aratrick Mondal is a senior sports journalist based in New Delhi. In his eight years as a sports writer, Aratrick has worked at leading media organisations, including The Times of India, Times Now, Zee, India TV and currently works at a senior position at Hindustan Times Digital. He writes on cricket, football, pickleball and tennis, among other sports. He has extensively covered India's evolving cricket landscape, the country's new-found love for private leagues such as Indian Pickleball League (IPBL), Ultimate Kho Kho League (UKK), Rugby Premier League (RPL) and several tennis leagues. He has closely covered emerging sports such as pickleball. His coverage of major franchise events lends an atmospheric flavor to his ground reports. His recent story on how SA20 (the domestic cricket league of South Africa) had opened up its grounds to create a carnival-like fan experience garnered major international attention, including appreciation from major cricketers. Tennis holds a special place in his heart. Aratrick has built a strong niche in analytical tennis stories—ranging from Grand Slam narratives and player profiles to tactical breakdowns and ranking trends. His long-form features often decode grand slams, career highs and lows of tennis greats and the upward trajectory of emerging stars. He also closely follows India's tennis landscape, having covered the Davis Cup, Bengaluru Open and Tata Open, among others. His reporting is backed by strong data capabilities, with hands-on experience using tools like Python, Tableau, and Excel to produce visually rich, insight-led stories. This data-first approach enhances accuracy, transparency, and trust. In leadership roles, he has managed editorial shifts, overseen homepage strategy, optimised SEO workflows, and mentored peers to deliver consistent, high-traffic journalism. He recently won the HT DigiStar award for the third quarter of financial year 2025-26. Aratrick is trusted for his balanced reportage, sound sourcing, and ability to translate complex sporting events into engaging narratives that speak to a wide audience. He believes sports is for everyone, not just for the enthusiasts and has a unique ability to bring people together - just like the sumptuous meals you'll often find him cooking on a weekend evening.Read More

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