PSL turns comedy show as replacement player shares playing XI with original player

PSL slammed on Social Media

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) once again found itself at the centre of criticism after a bizarre selection mix-up saw a replacement player feature alongside the very player he was meant to replace. The incident occurred during Match 26 of PSL 2026 between Quetta Gladiators and defending champions Lahore Qalandars, sparking widespread trolling on social media. Ahead of the match, Quetta Gladiators had announced that Sri Lanka veteran Dinesh Chandimal would replace New Zealand batter Bevon Jacobs in the squad. However, confusion unfolded at the toss when captain Saud Shakeel revealed that both Chandimal and Jacobs were part of the Playing XI, contradicting the earlier announcement and leaving fans puzzled.

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The franchise later clarified the situation, with general manager Nabeel Hashmi explaining that all-rounder Tom Curran had fallen ill, forcing a late change in plans. Chandimal, who was initially brought in as Jacobs’ replacement, was instead included in place of Curran, allowing both Chandimal and Jacobs to feature in the same XI Social Media buzzed over PSL for unprofessional act during the match:

Match Summary: Lahore Qalandars vs Quetta Gladiators

Quetta Gladiators defeated Lahore Qalandars by six wickets in Match 26 of PSL 2026, chasing down 135 with ease in Karachi. Lahore struggled on a slow pitch and were bowled out for 134, with Usman Tariq (3/18) leading a disciplined bowling effort from Quetta.

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In reply, Rilee Rossouw’s unbeaten 60 and a crucial partnership with Hasan Nawaz steadied the chase after early wickets. Quetta comfortably reached the target with 22 balls to spare, boosting their playoff chances while Lahore slumped to a third straight defeat.

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