PSL 2026 Update: Islamabad United Release Shamar Joseph After Fan Backlash

Islamabad United have changed their fast-bowling lineup at the last moment. They have released Shamar Joseph and are bringing in Blessing Muzarabani instead. Joseph had been picked at his base price of PKR 1.1 crore in Friday’s PSL auction, but the team has now decided to go with Muzarabani. However, soon after the deal was done, controversy broke out on social media.

The fast bowler was accused of sexual misconduct in 2025, and many fans were angry that Islamabad United included Shamar Joseph in the squad. Later, the team changed its decision and released him. Reports say both sides agreed to part ways peacefully. After the decision was made, Islamabad were keen to reinforce their seam options ahead of the upcoming season and Muzarabani was contacted and a deal was reached.

Islamabad United Replace Shamar Joseph With Blessing Muzarabani Amid Controversy

The 29-year-old has played in the PSL before and was part of the Islamabad United squad that won the title in 2021. However, neither Shamar Joseph nor the franchise wanted to speak publicly, and the final approval is still expected from the PSL technical committee. Meanwhile, Islamabad have strengthened their fast-bowling attack in recent days.Alongside Muzarabani, the squad features Mohammad Hasnain, Salman Irshad, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Mir Hamza, and Richard Gleeson.

The team also brought back a seam-bowling allrounder as their first pick in the auction, making him the second most expensive player overall. Meanwhile, Blessing Muzarabani is coming into the tournament in strong form after an impressive comeback. After struggling with consistency last year, he starred in Zimbabwe’s commanding win over Australia in the ongoing T20 World Cup, claiming the Player of the Match award and helping Zimbabwe secure two wins from two in their Super 8 qualifying bid.

Once confirmed, Muzarabani will join Sikandar Raza, the only other Zimbabwean in the PSL, who famously hit the winning runs for Lahore Qalandars in last year’s final. The 2026 PSL season begins on March 26 and will feature two new franchises: Sialkot Stallionz and Hyderabad Houston Kingsmen. Multan Sultans have also undergone a change in ownership, moving their base to Rawalpindi. The tournament will culminate on May 3.

×

India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026: Jay Shah & Mohsin Naqvi Likely to Attend Colombo Clash Cricket fans are ready for another big match between India and Pakistan on February 15 in the T20 World Cup in Colombo.

by Shekhar February 14, 2026