Pakistan’s veteran opener Fakhar Zaman has denied ball-tampering allegations following a high-stakes Pakistan Super League clash between Lahore Qalandars and Karachi Kings at Gaddafi Stadium. The 35-year-old was charged on Sunday night by match referee Roshan Mahanama with a Level 3 offence, specifically violating Article 2.14 of the PSL Code of Conduct and Article 41.3 of the playing conditions, both of which strictly forbid altering the state of the ball.

The controversy erupted just before the final over of the Karachi Kings’ innings, with the side requiring 14 runs for victory. Zaman was spotted in a huddle with Haris Rauf and captain Shaheen Shah Afridi; moments later, umpire Faisal Afridi called for the ball. After a brief inspection with his colleague, the official ruled that the ball had indeed been tampered with.

Appearing before Mahanama, the former Sri Lankan international, Zaman maintained his innocence. Despite his protestations, the match officials penalised Lahore Qalandars five runs on the spot and replaced the ball. This reduced the target for Karachi Kings to just nine runs from the final six deliveries. Abbas Afridi duly capitalised on the drama, securing the win by smashing Haris Rauf for a four and a six after an initial wide.

A final verdict is expected within the next 48 hours following a second hearing. Should the match referee uphold the charges, Zaman faces the prospect of a heavy ban, while the Lahore Qalandars organisation could also be hit with significant disciplinary sanctions.

Also read: Former players, experts divided on Mumbai Indians captaincy