Franchises object to Ali Zafar singing PSL 9 anthem amid harassment allegations

Cricket aficionados in Pakistan remain as excited for the Pakistan Super League (PSL) anthem as for the league itself. But with just one month left until the ninth edition kicks off, the identity of the singer for the official anthem remains shrouded in mystery.

According to Geo News sources, Ali Zafar, the singer who voiced the anthems in early PSL editions, was approached by the PSL management and had songs recorded for consideration. However, when the franchises learned of this, one franchise objected to Ali Zafar's involvement, while two others supported the franchise opposing him.

Ali Zafar's potential involvement in the PSL anthem is being debated due to the sexual harassment allegations against him, as reported by a local news outlet. 

Sources reveal that one franchise believes the PSL has grown into a major brand and wants to avoid any potential controversy. Therefore, they prefer an anthem sung by a singer free of any controversies.

Some PSL franchises have urged the PCB to reconsider Ali Zafar's selection for the anthem. This decision, they clarify, is not intended to ridicule or humiliate anyone, but solely to protect and strengthen the PSL brand.

In response, the league is considering other singers and performers, according to sources.

PSL 9 will start from February 17 and will continue till March 18.

Ali Zafar's musical journey with the PSL began in 2016 with his song, "Ab Khel Ke Dikha." The following year, he soared to new heights with "Ab Khel Jamay Ga," the league's record-breaking anthem released in 2018. In 2019, he sang "Dil Se Jaan Laga De," another powerful anthem for the tournament's third season. 

Few days ago, the acclaimed vocalist took to microblogging platform "X" to gauge public opinion on whether his singing the Pakistan Super League (PSL) anthem for season 9 would boost or harm the tournament's image.

He further hinted at the real reason for the poll, to gauge the reactions of his opponents, who he believes have been running an organised campaign, compared to the people who genuinely support his success.

Told you to wait to see why I started the poll 😎 A clear bait that they fell for using any means or tools to show their influence and power over people’s opinion. Now let me expose the rigging in the polls factually.
32,000 votes were cast from 5000 impressions, meaning 27,000… https://t.co/7A4mHNEUPR pic.twitter.com/OUb0yFqCvV

— Ali Zafar (@AliZafarsays) January 12, 2024