PSL ball-tampering row: Shahid Afridi's ball-biting video goes viral after Fakhar Zaman antic

NEW DELHI: Pakistan cricket has been rocked by yet another ball-tampering scandal. During the Pakistan Super League (PSL) match between Lahore Qalandars and Karachi Kings, fans at the Gaddafi Stadium were left stunned by a controversial moment. Pakistan and Lahore Qalandars star batter Fakhar Zaman was allegedly caught red-handed on live television tampering with the ball.

Fakhar appeared to be caught on camera altering the ball during the final stages of the match.

The incident occurred when Karachi Kings needed 14 runs to win in the last over. Qalandars captain Shaheen Afridi handed the ball to fast bowler Haris Rauf to bowl the final over.

Before starting his run-up, Rauf had a brief discussion with Afridi and Fakhar as they chalked out plans for the final over.

Amid all this, Fakhar was seen appearing to alter the ball. This prompted the on-field umpire to intervene, speak to captain Afridi, and eventually change the ball.

This is not the first time Pakistan players have been involved in a ball-tampering controversy.

Amid the latest row, an old and widely circulated video of Shahid Afridi tampering with the ball has resurfaced.

Afridi, who was leading Pakistan in the absence of Mohammad Yousuf during a T20I against Australia in 2010, was caught by TV cameras biting the ball.

Afridi was questioned by match referee Ranjan Madugalle immediately after the match. Madugalle said Afridi pleaded guilty to the charge, apologised, and regretted his action.

Afridi was banned for two T20Is after being found guilty of ball-tampering. He was charged under Article 2.2.9 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which relates to "changing the condition of the ball in breach of Law 42.3 of the Laws of Cricket".

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