Three-time champions Islamabad United have released West Indies fast bowler Shamar Joseph from their team for the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 season. The franchise had bought the fast bowler during the player auction but was forced to release him following a strong reaction from fans on social media.
The first-ever player auction for the PSL took place on 11 February at the Expo Center Lahore, with the league expanding to eight teams as Hyderabad and Sialkot joined the existing six franchises. Players like Usman Khawaja and Keshav Maharaj remained unsold in the auction for the upcoming season.
Fan backlash forces Islamabad United to release Shamar Joseph
Islamabad United bought the fast bowler from PKR for Rs 1.1 crore during the player auction, but the move soon drew the ire of the franchise’s supporters. As soon as the signing of Shamar Joseph was announced, there was a flood of criticism on social media platforms.
Fans were upset that the team had signed a player accused of serious sexual misconduct in 2025. The reaction quickly escalated, and the pressure became undeniable, forcing management to reconsider its decision within a matter of hours.
This is a rare example in franchise cricket where fan sentiment has directly influenced changes in the team, even before a player has donned the jersey. Although the franchise has not released any official statement, their actions on social media have made the situation clear.
Islamabad United shares PSL 2026 squad, Shamar Joseph absent
Islamabad United’s decision to part ways with Shamar Joseph became evident from his activity on social media. The franchise deleted the post announcing his signing and later shared an updated squad graphic that did not include his name.
A welcome post previously shared for Joseph was removed from all official platforms as criticism from fans continued to grow. The franchise later published its “Class of 2026” squad list, which included overseas players such as Devon Conway and Mark Chapman, but Joseph was notably absent.
The strong reaction from supporters was linked to the serious allegations made against Joseph in 2025. The West Indies fast bowler was accused of rape and sexual assault by 11 women, including a teenage cousin, with reports also claiming he attempted to bribe the victims to keep quiet.
Official
Shamar Joseph has been dropped from Islamabad United squad #PSL11 pic.twitter.com/tl9lAl7whX-TheGuyFromPindi (@TheGuyFromPindi) 12 February 2026
Shamar Joseph’s career in all formats
Shamar Joseph came into limelight with his historic 7/68 at the Gabba in 2024. He has fast become a multi-format player for the West Indies. He made his Test debut against Australia in January 2024 and this fast bowler has taken 51 wickets in 11 Test matches.
Joseph made his T20I debut against South Africa in May 2024. He has taken 19 wickets in 17 T20I matches at an average of 28.11 and an economy rate of 9.21, with his best bowling performance being 3/30.
In the IPL, Joseph made his debut for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in 2024, with the franchise re-signing him for ₹75 lakh in the 2025 auction.
He is currently part of the West Indies squad for the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup 2026. The right-arm fast bowler has featured in major matches against England and South Africa. He took the last wicket to ensure a 30-run victory over England in the second match.
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