LAHORE (MNN); A senior police official has formally raised concerns over an alleged breach of security protocols involving Lahore Qalandars players during the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL), urging authorities to take action to prevent similar incidents in the future.
According to officials, Lahore Deputy Inspector-General of Police (Operations) Muhammad Faisal brought the matter to the attention of the Pakistan Super League administration after receiving a report about a late-night incident at a hotel where PSL teams are staying under strict security arrangements.
The alleged incident took place on March 28, 2026, at a Lahore hotel designated for PSL teams, where tight security protocols are in place to ensure the safety of local and international players participating in the tournament.
In a formal communication, the DIG stated that the issue came to light following a report submitted by the superintendent of police (operations) of Civil Lines Division. The report described what was termed a “serious breach” of established security procedures.
According to the details, at around 10:35pm, a liaison officer from Lahore Qalandars approached a Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) security official, Akhtar Hussain, requesting permission to allow four relatives of Zimbabwean all-rounder Sikandar Raza to visit his hotel room.
However, the request was declined in accordance with the security protocols that strictly regulate access to players during the tournament.
The matter did not end there. The franchise owner of Lahore Qalandars, Sameen Rana, reportedly also approached the PSL chief executive officer with a similar request. This request was likewise denied on security grounds, reaffirming the strict enforcement of rules.
Despite these clear refusals, the report alleges that events took a concerning turn later in the night.
At approximately 11:05pm, security staff from the Pakistan Cricket Board reported that Lahore Qalandars captain Shaheen Shah Afridi and Sikandar Raza allegedly disregarded the instructions issued by security officials. It is claimed that both players escorted the four visitors into Raza’s room despite resistance from on-duty personnel.
The visitors reportedly remained inside the room for nearly two hours, leaving around 1:25am, according to the report.
Authorities have described this as a clear violation of the PCB’s established security protocols and code of conduct. These rules are designed not only to maintain discipline within the tournament but also to ensure the safety of players, officials, and other individuals associated with the event.
The DIG’s letter stressed the seriousness of the incident and called for a thorough review by the relevant authorities. It urged the PSL management to take necessary steps to prevent any recurrence of such violations, emphasizing that strict adherence to security measures is critical in a high-profile international tournament.
Officials have reiterated that maintaining discipline and compliance with security guidelines is essential to avoid any potential risks or untoward situations, particularly given the presence of international players and heightened security concerns.
The Pakistan Super League, now in its 11th edition, continues to attract global attention, with several overseas players joining their respective franchises. Incidents like these highlight the importance of robust security enforcement to safeguard the integrity and smooth conduct of the tournament.
No official response from the players or the franchise had been issued at the time of reporting. However, the matter is expected to be reviewed by the PSL governing body, which may decide on further action after examining the incident in detail.
