Shaheen Afridi and Sikandar Raza allegedly bypassed security to escort four visitors to the team hotel on March 28.
Following a high-profile security protocol breach during the 2026 Pakistan Super League (PSL) involving Lahore Qalandars players, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has enforced strict new guidelines to prevent unauthorized meetings at team hotels.
The crackdown was triggered after it came to light that Qalandars skipper Shaheen Afridi and all-rounder Sikandar Raza allegedly bypassed security to escort four visitors to the team hotel on March 28, despite their requests for permission being twice denied by officials.
In an email sent to all eight franchises on April 1, the PCB informed that no player or official can meet family members at the team hotel without first obtaining permission from the board at least 24 hours in advance.
"The board has made it clear that anyone wanting to meet family members at the hotel has to seek permission 24 hours before the intended visit," said a source close to the PCB, as quoted by PTI.
The board has also made it clear that only immediate family (wife, parents, siblings) are permitted inside player rooms, and that too after the required clearance.
"The board has also made it clear that only a player's wife, parents, brother and sister are allowed inside the player's room, that too after getting clearance from the board 24 hours in advance," the source added.
He said senior police officials had taken a serious view of the security protocol violation by Shaheen and Sikandar.
"The police officials conveyed to the board that unless all franchises adhere strictly to the security protocols, it will be impossible for them to provide a safe and secure environment at the team hotel for all players and officials."
PCB’s security manager and anti-corruption head have reportedly expressed serious concerns regarding the security breach to PSL CEO Salman Naseer.
(With PTI Inputs)