Pakistan’s T20 World Cup campaign ended in disappointment, failing to advance beyond the Super 8 stage. But off the field, a fresh controversy has tarnished the team’s image further. Reports reveal that a Pakistani player engaged in inappropriate behavior with a female housekeeping staff member at a hotel in Kandy, Sri Lanka, just before their final Super 8 match against the hosts.
The incident unfolded at the Golden Crown Hotel, where the team was staying. According to details emerging from the scene, the player misconducted himself, prompting the staff member to call for help. Fellow hotel employees intervened to protect her and promptly informed Pakistan team manager Naveed Cheema.
Hotel management demanded strict action, but Cheema opted for an apology on behalf of the player and imposed a fine for the misconduct. This quick resolution, however, hasn’t quelled the backlash, with the player now potentially facing scrutiny from the Pakistan Cricket Board’s disciplinary committee.
This isn’t an isolated event. Pakistan’s cricketers and support staff have a chequered history of off-field issues. Last year, young batter Haider Ali was arrested by Manchester police during the Shaheens’ England tour on rape allegations involving a woman. He was released due to lack of evidence after court appearance.
Similarly, team masseur Malang Ali faced fines years ago for similar misconduct with female staff during a Malaysia tour. As Pakistan grapples with on-field struggles, these repeated lapses raise serious questions about discipline and conduct within the national setup. The cricket board’s response will be watched closely.