PSL 11: Lahore Qalandars Penalize Captain Shaheen Afridi for Security Premises Breach

Lahore Qalandars have imposed a fine on captain Shaheen Shah Afridi for violating security protocols at the team hotel. He has been fined Rs 1 million after reports emerged that he was involved in escorting unauthorized people into the players’ rooms.

The franchise also issued a statement, describing that the matter was being investigated internally, and it might have happened due to a misunderstanding of the security protocols.

Lahore Qalandars further said that it had informed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) of its decision after finishing a full internal investigation. It added that some reports had exaggerated the incident and did not reflect the facts.

The statement of the franchise further said the action against Shaheen was meant to ensure accountability and discipline, and it emphasized that the team respects all security rules.

"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," said the Lahore Qalandars statement.

"The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to strict adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and emphasised the importance of continued clarity and alignment in the communication of protocols to prevent similar situations in the future." added the statement.

Meanwhile, no action was taken against Sikandar Raza, who was also accused by the police of breaking the same rules. Addressing these accusations at yesterday’s press conference, Raza accepted responsibility for the incident and tried to clear Afridi of any blame.

The incident came to light after a letter from the Punjab police to PSL CEO Salman Naseer circulated widely on social media. The letter accused Lahore Qalandars players, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Sikandar Raza, of breaking security rules, claiming that even though permission was denied for visitors in Raza's room, they still allowed people in. While Raza said the visitors stayed for 40 minutes, the letter claimed they were there for about three hours.