The Pakistan Super League 2026 season kicked off with plenty of anticipation, but the opening game quickly grabbed attention for an unusual and unexpected reason. During the clash between Lahore Qalandars and Hyderabad Kingsmen at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium, the white cricket ball began changing colour just a few overs into the match.
Players and fans were left puzzled as the ball gradually developed a reddish tint, raising questions on the field. Hyderabad Kingsmen captain Marnus Labuschagne was visibly surprised and even approached the umpire mid-game to understand the situation.
Reflecting on the bizarre moment, Labuschagne said, “I did say to the umpires after the second over, ‘What’s going on? The ball is red.’” He further added, “It must be from the clothes or something like that. I haven’t seen anything like it before.”
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As it turned out, there was no foul play involved. The discolouration was reportedly caused by dye from the Kingsmen’s maroon jerseys transferring onto the ball while players polished it—a common practice to maintain shine and swing.
Peak Pakistan Super League standards 😭
During the very first match of PSL 11, the ball literally turned pink every time Hyderabad Kingsmen players rubbed it on their kit.
Did they get knockoff kits instead of authentic ones?
International league or gully-level experiment? 🤡 pic.twitter.com/Beq5zhmSkb
— Brutal Truth (@sarkarstix) March 26, 2026
Labuschagne admitted the incident was unprecedented in his experience. “I’ve seen cases where paint comes off the bat or pads onto the ball, but never from clothing,” he explained, expressing confidence that the issue would be addressed in upcoming matches.
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While the incident sparked widespread reactions on social media, it also coincided with a significant rule change in the PSL. The league has introduced a new regulation allowing teams to submit two team sheets before the toss and finalise their playing XI after the toss result.
This rule aims to counter the impact of dew in subcontinental conditions, which often makes bowling difficult in night games. By offering tactical flexibility, the PSL hopes to create a more balanced contest between bat and ball moving forward.
