Sikandar Raza Addresses Security Breach Allegations with Shaheen Afridi
Clarification on Security Breach Claims
Lahore, Pakistan - March 30: Zimbabwean all-rounder Sikandar Raza has spoken out regarding accusations of a security breach involving him and his Lahore Qalandars teammate, Shaheen Shah Afridi. The allegations suggest that they allowed four unauthorized individuals into the team's hotel room, which Raza claims were merely his long-time friends and family members, with Afridi only assisting him.
Recently, a controversy emerged in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) when it was reported that Raza and Afridi were involved in a serious security violation after four unauthorized guests accessed the team's hotel room, as reported by a sports news outlet. A letter from the Punjab police was sent to PSL's chief executive, Salman Naseer, accusing them of 'forcibly escorting' these visitors to Raza's room.
In response, Raza clarified that the individuals in question were indeed his close family and friends. He explained that he preferred not to meet them in the hotel’s business center, and Afridi assisted him by bringing them to his room. Raza emphasized that it was his request that led to Afridi going downstairs to greet them.
“Shaheen did not force anyone,” Raza stated. “My friends and family were visiting, and at my request, Shaheen helped them come to my room. If there were any SOPs regarding visitor access, I was unaware, and to some extent, so was Shaheen. I take full responsibility for this situation, not Shaheen. We spent about 40 minutes together in my room,” he added.
Raza's account contradicts the police's version of events, which claims that the Qalandars' Liaison Officer sought permission from the PCB's security and anti-corruption manager to allow Raza's acquaintances into his hotel room, a request that was denied due to security protocols. The letter further alleges that despite these refusals, Afridi and Raza proceeded to bring the guests in, disregarding the on-duty security staff's objections.
On Sunday, the police letter was leaked on social media, raising concerns about the team's adherence to security measures. While Raza mentioned that the guests were in his room for 40 minutes, the police letter stated they remained for three hours.
Sources within the Qalandars organization have confirmed the general details of the incident but dispute any claims of forced entry. Raza noted that he has been friends with the visitors for 19 years and that his wife and children were also present. He expressed the importance of family connections, stating, “My family and relatives live here, and I do not get to see them throughout the year.”
Raza reiterated that it was his decision to have the visitors in his room and that Afridi merely acted on his request. He mentioned that they had also communicated with some PCB members regarding the situation. PCB's media head, Umar Farooq, acknowledged the incident and confirmed ongoing discussions with the PSL about the matter.
The police letter has urged the PSL to take necessary actions to prevent similar incidents in the future.