Sialkot Stallionz owner Hamza Majeed denies fraud allegations, confirms financial obligations cleared

Lahore: Owner of Sialkot Stallionz, Hamza Majeed, has strongly rejected allegations of fraud and financial instability, terming them “baseless propaganda” during a detailed press conference held at Gaddafi Stadium on Monday.

Accompanied by representatives of Ozzy Group, Majeed addressed weeks of speculation surrounding his Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise ownership, alleged partnership disputes, and rumors regarding unpaid franchise fees.

“All Financial Obligations Are 100% Complete”

Majeed categorically stated that all payments due to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have been fulfilled.

“From January 15, PCB has my bank guarantee for the first year’s franchise fee. On top of that, there is a three-year corporate guarantee. If PCB wants to encash the bank guarantee tomorrow, they can,” he said.

He dismissed claims of bankruptcy and default, questioning why no regulatory body — including banks or government institutions — had issued any notice if such allegations were true.

“Did PCB declare me a defaulter? Did any bank issue a notice? These are completely fabricated stories,” he added.

Partnership Dispute and “Fake Payment Receipt”

Providing a timeline of events, Majeed revealed that discussions with a potential strategic partner collapsed after what he described as a “misjudgment of trust.” According to him, a payment receipt shared by the individual later turned out to be fake.

He explained that the supposed payment was never received, despite assurances that the funds would arrive within three to four days.

“When I asked tough questions, there were no answers. That’s when I stepped back,” he said, clarifying that no share dilution or sale agreement was ever executed.

Majeed emphasized that under PCB regulations, shares cannot be transferred without formal approval.

Legal Action Initiated

Addressing the damage caused by circulating rumors, Majeed confirmed that legal proceedings have been initiated through the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA). A legal notice has also been served to individuals allegedly involved in spreading defamatory content.

Haroon Haneef of Ozzy Group stated that the negative campaign affected business operations and employee morale.

“We have over 1,100 employees. Circulating bankruptcy rumors without evidence is irresponsible. We are pursuing legal action,” he said.

Coaching Staff and Squad Confirmed

Despite the off-field controversy, Majeed confirmed that preparations for the upcoming PSL season are on track. He officially announced the franchise’s coaching lineup, including:

• Tim Paine as Head Coach

• Mike Smith as Assistant Coach

• Rana Naveed-ul-Hasan as Bowling Coach

• Shoaib Maqsood as Batting Coach

• Brendan Wilson as Team Physio

He further confirmed that Australian star Steve Smith remains part of the squad, dismissing rumors of his withdrawal.

“Our entire playing XI is intact. Steve Smith is in our squad. There is no change,” he asserted.

The franchise captain will be announced later this week, with two to three names currently shortlisted.

“PSL Is My Passion”

Calling the franchise a “dream come true,” Majeed said his journey to owning a PSL team began two-and-a-half years ago when expansion plans were first announced.

“This was never just business for me. PSL cricket is in my blood. But as valuations rise, financial strategy also evolves. Strategic partnerships are normal in big businesses,” he explained.

He confirmed that discussions with a new potential investor are ongoing, subject to PCB approval, and a fresh announcement is expected within the next few days.

PCB’s Support Highlighted

Majeed thanked PCB management for their support throughout the controversy, stating that the board was fully aware of the situation.

“If PCB had even the slightest doubt about me, I wouldn’t be sitting here today,” he said.

As the PSL season approaches, the Sialkot Stallionz management has pledged to move forward stronger, focusing on performance rather than off-field distractions.

“InshaAllah, we will get through this season and aim to come out on top,” Majeed concluded.