Pakistan batter Fakhar Zaman has found himself at the centre of a fresh ball-tampering controversy in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), with the latest incident reviving questions over a similar episode during the 2024 T20 World Cup.Zaman, along with Shaheen Shah Afridi and Sikandar Raza, has denied any wrongdoing following Lahore Qalandars’ four-wicket defeat to Karachi Kings at the Gaddafi Stadium. However, the 35-year-old has been charged with a Level 3 offence under the PSL Code of Conduct for allegedly altering the condition of the ball.
Fakhar Zaman’s latest PSL ball-tampering row
The controversy unfolded just before the final over of Karachi Kings’ chase, when they required 14 runs to win. Zaman was seen in discussion with Afridi and bowler Haris Rauf before the umpires intervened.On-field umpire Faisal Afridi called for the ball after it had passed between Rauf and Zaman. Following inspection, officials ruled that its condition had been altered, awarding Karachi five penalty runs and replacing the ball. The equation was reduced to nine off the final over, which Karachi chased down comfortably.Zaman has denied the charge before match referee Roshan Mahanama, with a verdict expected soon. Afridi also distanced himself from the incident, stating he was unaware of any change to the ball, while Raza echoed similar sentiments.The Pakistan Cricket Board has taken a serious view of the matter, with officials indicating that strict action could follow if the charges are proven.
Fakhar Zaman with the ball (Video grab)
Echoes of doubt from PAK vs USA T20 World Cup clash
The latest controversy has drawn attention back to an incident during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup match between Pakistan and the USA in Dallas.During that game, Zaman was seen collecting the ball and placing it under his jersey for a prolonged period, with both hands appearing to manipulate it — raising suspicions among USA players. The act differed from conventional ball shining, which typically involves rubbing the ball with one hand.Soon after, the ball began to reverse swing noticeably, making batting more difficult despite the USA being in a strong position. The match eventually went to a Super Over, which the USA won.As per a Cricbuzz report, USA players reportedly raised concerns with officials, including fourth umpire Rod Tucker and match referee Jeff Crowe, though no formal charges were filed at the time.Questions without conclusionsWhile neither incident has resulted in a proven offence so far, the similarities — both in timing and nature — have intensified scrutiny around Zaman. Both situations occurred when his side was under pressure.With the PSL hearing pending, the outcome could determine whether this remains an isolated controversy or evolves into a larger issue. For now, Zaman maintains his innocence, but the spotlight on his actions has rarely been sharper.