PCB tightens hotel security after Afridi incident

“If you want to meet someone, inform us 24 hours in advance.” The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued new directives to PSL franchises, further tightening security protocols at team hotels. Only close family members will be allowed into hotel rooms, and even for that, prior notice of one day will be required. The move comes as part of efforts to ensure stricter compliance with security regulations during the tournament.

According to details, a few days ago, reports emerged that Lahore Qalandars’ Shaheen Shah Afridi and Sikandar Raza had brought some individuals into their hotel room without permission. The police accused both players of violating established security protocols, raising concerns among officials responsible for team safety.

In a letter sent by Punjab Police to the Pakistan Cricket Board and the PSL Chief, it was alleged that Shaheen Afridi and Sikandar Raza forcibly brought unauthorized individuals into the hotel room. The letter further highlighted the seriousness of the breach and urged authorities to take strict measures to prevent such incidents in the future, emphasizing the importance of maintaining discipline and security standards.

Regarding the matter, Sikandar Raza stated that the friends and family were brought to his room by Shaheen at his request. He clarified that there was no intention to violate rules and added that if there were SOPs prohibiting room visits, they were not clearly communicated to them. Raza took full responsibility for the incident, stating that the fault was his and not Shaheen’s, while also expressing regret over the situation.

For violating security protocols, Lahore Qalandars fined captain Shaheen Afridi 1 million rupees as part of internal disciplinary action. The franchise reiterated its commitment to following tournament regulations and ensuring that such incidents do not occur again.

Now, further developments have surfaced, indicating a stricter stance from the governing body. The PCB has issued new guidelines to all franchises, reinforcing existing rules and introducing additional measures to control access within team hotels.

In an official email, it was stated: “Further to the guidelines outlined in the Operations Manual, this is to reiterate the policy regarding visits by family members and external guests at team hotels.” Upon receiving at least 24 hours’ prior notice, the PCB will aim to facilitate visits by outside guests. Such meetings will be arranged at a suitable designated location within the hotel premises, strictly not on the team floor.

For direct family members of players—limited to spouse, father, mother, brother, sister, and children—access to the player’s room will be permitted, subject to a minimum of 24 hours’ prior notice. At the end of the email, a board official wrote that franchise cooperation in ensuring adherence to these protocols is appreciated to maintain the security and operational integrity of all participating teams.