'Flying Bam Bahadur’s pigeon': PSL trolled over 'peacemaker act' amid US-Iran ceasefire

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 found itself at the centre of social media trolling after a symbolic 'peace' gesture during 15th match between Peshawar Zalmi and Hyderabad Kingsmen sparked widespread criticism online.

Ahead of Match 15 between Peshawar Zalmi and Hyderabad Kingsmen on April 8, a symbolic gesture captured widespread attention. At the toss, Peshawar Zalmi captain Babar Azam, Hyderabad Kingsmen skipper Marnus Labuschagne, and PSL CEO Salman Naseer released a white dove, an internationally recognised symbol of peace.

The act was part of the 'Pakistan - The Peace Maker' initiative, aimed at projecting the country’s commitment to peace amid ongoing geopolitical tensions between in US and Iran, particularly in the Middle East. Soon after the visuals surfaced, social media platforms were flooded with reactions, with many users mocking the initiative. Critics labelled the gesture as “forced,” “PR-driven,” and “out of place” in a cricket tournament.

Match Summary - Hyderabad Kingsmen vs Peshawar Zalmi

Hyderabad Kingsmen suffered their fourth straight defeat despite a spirited fight against Peshawar Zalmi. Batting first, Kingsmen struggled early, losing four wickets for just 34 before a crucial 82-run stand between Perera and Marnus Labuschagne lifted them to 145. However, a late collapse saw them lose five wickets for just nine runs.

In reply, Zalmi got off to a strong start, scoring 56 in the powerplay. Though wickets from Saim Ayub and Hassan Khan brought Kingsmen back into the game, reducing the equation to 14 off the final over, Iftikhar Ahmed held his nerve. After already taking four wickets, he smashed a boundary and a six in the last over to seal a thrilling last-ball win for Zalmi.

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