Security breach during PSL 11 under investigation: soures
By Nawaz Gohar : Authorities have launched a formal investigation into a serious breach of security protocols during PSL 11, with officials vowing strict action against those found responsible, sources said.
According to official sources and a written communication from the DIG Operations, several players allegedly violated Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) security regulations at a local hotel on the night of March 28.
The incident reportedly began around 10:35 PM, when the Liaison Officer for Lahore Qalandars contacted Lt. Col. (Retd) Akhtar Hussain, PCB’s Manager of Security and Anti-Corruption, seeking permission for four individuals, said to be relatives of all-rounder Sikandar Raza, to visit the player in his private quarters.
In line with the tournament’s strict security and anti-corruption protocols, the PCB denied the request. Sources further revealed that the matter was subsequently escalated by Lahore Qalandars owner Sameen Rana to PSL CEO Salman Naseer. However, the request was again rejected on security grounds.
Despite these refusals, a report filed by on-site security personnel alleges that at approximately 11:05 PM, team captain Shaheen Shah Afridi and Sikandar Raza disregarded official directives. The report claims the players bypassed security checks and escorted four unauthorized individuals to Room 865 on the eighth floor, assigned to Raza.
The individuals, identified as Shahzaib Mujahid, Adil Nadeem, Usman Ahmed Dar, and Bilal Ahmed, reportedly remained in the room until around 1:25 AM.
The SP Operations (Civil Lines Division) has termed the incident a “grave violation” of established security measures. Subsequently, the DIG Operations has issued a formal memorandum to the PSL CEO and the PCB, expressing serious concern over the breach and the apparent disregard for security protocols.
The correspondence underscores the sensitive nature of the incident and calls on the PCB to address the matter through appropriate disciplinary channels. It further stresses that firm action is essential to prevent future violations and to safeguard the integrity of the tournament’s security framework.
