PSL security row: Shaheen Afridi, Sikandar Raza accused of protocol violation

Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Lahore Qalandars captain Shaheen Shah Afridi and overseas all-rounder Sikandar Raza have come under scrutiny after being accused of breaching security protocols at the team hotel in Lahore, triggering concern among tournament officials and security authorities.

According to officials, the issue surfaced after Muhammad Faisal , DIG (Operations), Lahore , formally informed the PSL chief executive officer about a serious lapse in the strict security arrangements put in place for teams staying at a five-star hotel during the tournament.

The alleged incident occurred late on Saturday night. Security officials stated that despite two requests for permission being denied, four guests were reportedly escorted to Raza’s room on the eighth floor , where they remained until around 1:25 a.m.

Reports indicate that the Lahore Qalandars liaison officer first sought approval at 10:35 p.m. , requesting that four relatives of Raza be allowed to visit his room. The request was reviewed by the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) security and anti-corruption officials , but it was rejected in line with PSL security protocols .

A second attempt was made at around 11:00 p.m. , when team owner Sameen Rana reportedly approached PSL CEO Salman Naseer seeking permission for the visit. However, the request was again declined due to security concerns .

Despite the refusals, security staff reported that Afridi and Raza allegedly escorted the guests into the room around 11:05 p.m. , even as on-site personnel objected. The visitors reportedly stayed in the room for more than two hours before leaving.

Senior police officials have described the episode as a violation of PCB security guidelines and the code of conduct , which are designed to ensure the safety of players, officials, and team staff during the high-profile tournament.

The matter has been formally communicated to the Pakistan Cricket Board, and officials are expected to review the incident and determine whether disciplinary action is required.

The controversy has drawn attention to the strict security framework implemented for PSL teams, especially given the league’s history of heightened security measures for international players and staff.