The 2026 season of the Pakistan Super League is approaching its climax as various teams vie for a playoff berth. While the on-field action had already been dramatic, controversial statements off the field have now contributed further to the drama.
Multan Sultans’ overseas star Steve Smith made headlines a few days ago for his spectacular hundred against Hyderabad Kingsmen. The century was the first for the Australian in the PSL however, Usman Khan matched his effort by scoring a similar ton while batting down the order for the opposition in the chase.
Despite their efforts Multan Sultans have sealed their spot in the playoffs. They are currently second in the points table with 6 wins in 9 matches, looking in great form heading into the final stage of the tournament.
Owner targets Zalmi and Qalandars
It was in the aftermath of the match that Multan Sultans owner Gohar Shah came into the limelight with strong statements on The Burger Shop Podcast. He raised serious concerns about fairness in the league by targeting Peshawar Zalmi led by Babar Azam.
Gohar Shah was quoted to have said:
"I don't like Peshawar Zalmi because I feel they get too much of the rub of the green. I even joke with my team that it's the Peshawar Super League rather than the Pakistan Super League because they receive far more favorable decisions for no apparent reason and we don't know wh."
His comments have raised eyebrows and fueled discussions across the cricket fraternity regarding whether there is any foul play.
Shah also expressed his dislike for Lahore Qalandars, led by Shaheen Afridi. He labeled them as 'enemy number one' for him, after a recent social media war of words, this time related to ball tampering.
He Further added:
"Lahore Qalandars are really annoying. I don't like how they behave, especially their fan base. I am not pointing fingers at the owners or the players. I tweeted saying I thought the ball was getting a pedicure. Later, I'm not sure, but the umpire has given the batter out for ball tampering. It had nothing to do with me. He had no relation with the umpire; the umpire made that decision."
Shah concluded:
"My only crime was I, as a spectator watching the match, felt something had happened to the ball and it did not feel right, so I just made that point. This became such a big issue saying that I'm anti-Pathan and anti-LQ. They may not be the enemy number one for my franchise, but definitely for me."
Playoff Race Heat Up
The tournament is nearing its conclusion and the race to qualify for the playoffs is getting exciting. Peshawar Zalmi is currently at the top of the table with 8 wins and one no result in 9 games and have already confirmed a top two finish.
Multan Sultans sit second and have also confirmed their place in the playoffs.
The remaining two playoff spots are up for grabs as Islamabad United are at third with 9 points and Hyderabad Kingsmen, Lahore Qalandars, Karachi Kings, and Quetta Gladiators are tied at eighth points with a limited number of matches remaining.
With very few games left, every fixture will be a must-win one, and coupled with close encounters, the off-field comments have indeed turned the PSL 2026 into an exciting season.