Punjab Police have accused Lahore Qalandars of a serious breach of security protocols after four unauthorised visitors accessed the team hotel floor late Saturday night.
In a letter addressed to PSL chief executive Salman Naseer, officials alleged Shaheen Shah Afridi and Sikandar Raza escorted the visitors to a player room.
The letter stated the visitors remained inside the hotel room for approximately three hours despite prior refusals from security officials responsible for maintaining strict protocols.
According to the police, the Qalandars liaison officer initially requested permission from PCB security officials, which was declined due to established security guidelines and procedures.
The letter further alleged that a subsequent request by team owner Sameen Rana was also rejected, but the visitors were still escorted inside.
Police claimed Afridi and Raza disregarded directives and forced entry for the visitors despite resistance from security personnel stationed at the hotel premises.
Lahore Qalandars said they were aware of the incident and confirmed they were in communication with PSL authorities regarding the matter and any further action.
Security protocols are strictly enforced during PSL events to protect players, staff, and team operations, and violations are taken seriously to prevent future lapses at venues.
Qalandars Dominate Kingsmen in PSL 2026 Opener
Defending champions delivered a commanding performance in their first match to defeat debutants Hyderabad Kingsmen by 69 runs in the opening match of PSL 2026 at Gaddafi Stadium.
After setting a challenging target of 200 runs, the disciplined bowling attack of the Shaheed Afridi-led side restricted Hyderabad to 130 all out in their allotted 20 overs comfortably.
Lahore’s innings was anchored by Fakhar Zaman, whose composed half-century laid the foundation for a competitive total despite a brief collapse in the middle overs.
He scored 53 runs from 39 deliveries, striking nine boundaries, and ensured his side maintained momentum after an aggressive start provided by the opening partnership.
Fakhar and Mohammad Naeem added 84 runs for the first wicket, giving Lahore early control before Naeem departed after scoring 30 runs off 19 balls.
Lahore’s bowlers shared the workload effectively, with Haris Rauf, Sikandar Raza and Ubaid Shah claiming two wickets each to dismantle Hyderabad’s batting lineup.
Mustafizur Rahman and Shaheen Shah Afridi contributed with one wicket apiece, ensuring consistent pressure that prevented Hyderabad from mounting any significant resistance during the chase.
The collective bowling effort highlighted Lahore’s depth and discipline, completing a comprehensive victory that underlined their title credentials early in the tournament.
