Controversy Erupts as Journalist Caught Smoking During PSL Match
PSL 2026 Match Overview
On April 1, during the Pakistani Super League (PSL) 2026 clash between the Hyderabad Kingsmen and Multan Sultans, a notable incident occurred at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The Hyderabad Kingsmen faced their second consecutive defeat, losing by six wickets to the Multan Sultans. After setting a competitive score of 225 runs for five wickets in 20 overs, they were unable to defend it as Multan successfully chased down the target in just 18.4 overs. Sahibzada Farhan was the standout performer, scoring 106 runs off 57 balls, which included 8 sixes and 7 fours, achieving a strike rate of 185.96.
Previously, the Hyderabad Kingsmen had lost to the Lahore Qalandars in the tournament opener, marking a challenging start for the team.
Journalist's Smoking Incident
During the match, a Pakistani journalist caught the attention of fans when he was seen smoking in the stands. The individual, identified as Ejaz Wasim Bakhri, was filmed with a cigarette in hand. Upon noticing the camera, he attempted to conceal the cigarette, but the footage quickly spread across social media platforms.
Senior Sports Journalist Ejaz Wasim Bakhri caught smoking live in PSL match...Is smoking allowed in the stadiums? #HBLPSL11 #PSL2026
This incident was particularly surprising as the PSL 2026 matches were being held behind closed doors, with only select guests and officials permitted entry due to security and fuel-saving measures.
Public Reaction to the Incident
The video of Bakhri smoking went viral, sparking outrage among fans and cricket followers on social media, especially on X (formerly Twitter). Many expressed their disapproval, questioning whether VIPs were receiving preferential treatment. Comments ranged from labeling it a 'new low for Pakistan Super League standards' to humorously dubbing it the 'Pakistan Smoking League.'
Critics pointed out the hypocrisy of Bakhri, who often criticizes players for their behavior, yet violated stadium rules himself. Calls for accountability from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) were made to prevent such occurrences in the future.
Ongoing Controversies in PSL 2026
The current season of the Pakistan Super League has been overshadowed by various controversies, including a peculiar pink ball incident during the opening match, a ball-tampering scandal involving Fakhar Zaman, and disciplinary actions against players for off-field misconduct. Despite the league having just started, these issues have already begun to dominate headlines, prompting demands for stricter enforcement of regulations by the PCB.