Confusion spread among cricket fans during the opening match of the 2026 Pakistan Super League (PSL 11) between Lahore Qalandars and Hyderabad Kingsmen when the ball used in the first innings appeared to turn pinkish in color.
The unusual change became noticeable in the second over of Qalandars’ innings, as the ball looked visibly pink in the hands of Kingsmen fielders.
Fans quickly picked up on the difference and took to social media to share their reactions.
Some speculated that the discoloration may have been caused by the Kingsmen’s maroon-colored uniforms, suggesting that dye from the trousers transferred onto the ball during fielding. Others believed the effect could be due to the stadium lighting.
“Am I tripping or the ball [color] in this match is pink?” one fan wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Another user commented, “The Kingsmen maroon kit has made the ball pink,” adding a grimacing emoji.
According to cricket regulations, the ball can be replaced if either team raises concerns to the umpires or if match officials determine that the ball is unsuitable for play.
Despite the unusual situation, Lahore Qalandars were unaffected and posted a strong total of 199 for 6 in their 20 overs.
Left-handed opener Fakhar Zaman led the scoring with 53 runs off 39 deliveries, including 10 boundaries. He was supported by Mohammad Naeem, who scored 30 runs off 19 balls.
In the later stages of the innings, Haseebullah Khan contributed an unbeaten 40 off 28 deliveries, while Sikandar Raza added a quick 24 runs off just 10 balls to strengthen the total.