Shaheen Shah Afridi fined by Lahore Qalandars after hotel security protocol breach, team downplays controversy

The controversial incident was an alleged breach of security protocols by Shaheen Shah Afridi and Sikandar Raza.

Updated on: Mar 31, 2026, 06:05:59 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

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Shaheen Shah Afridi has been fined PKR 1 million by Lahore Qalandars after an internal review into his alleged breach of security protocols. The incident happened at the team hotel on March 28. But the team has described the incident as being over-exaggerated by the public.

Pakistan's Shaheen Shah Afridi has been fined by his PSL franchise. (AFP)

Soon a the team began an investgation and took a 'voluntary and proactive' measure by fining the Pakistan pacer, to reinforce discipline and demonstrate accountability.

Also Read: Mohsin Naqvi left agitated and fuming as PSL faces heat for ball tampering row and security issues: Report

The incident was an alleged breach of security protocols by Shaheen and Sikandar Raza. Four unauthorised visitors were initially not given permission reportedly to access the players' floor, although they made formal requests to the security officials and PCB. The players also allegedly disregarded these refusals and escorted visitors to the hotel room, where they staed for around three hours.

In a press release, the franchise said, "In the interest of maintaining discipline and demonstrating accountability, the franchise has taken a voluntary and proactive step by imposing a fine of PKR 1 million on Shaheen Shah Afridi for his involvement. Lahore Qalandars has also formally communicated a detailed response, along with its observations on the matter, to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)."

"The franchise expressed its sincere appreciation for the efforts of security personnel, recognising their essential role in ensuring a safe and secure environment for players, officials, and spectators. While underscoring that the matter arose from a misunderstanding rather than any deliberate attempt to violate established procedures, Lahore Qalandars reiterated its full respect for all security protocols," it further added.

Meanwhile, Raza has provided clarity on the situation. According to ESPNCricinfo, he said, ""Shaheen did not force anyone."

"My friends and family had come, and at my request, Shaheen helped them [come up to my room]. If these were the SOPs [that visitors were not allowed into our rooms], I wasn't aware, and to some extent, Shaheen was not aware either. The culprit here is me, not Shaheen. He went down on my request, because it was my close family and friends; I did not want to meet them in the business centre. We sat upstairs for 40 minutes."

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

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