PCB Imposes Heavy Fine After Social Media Controversy
Pakistan fast bowler Naseem Shah has publicly apologized after being fined Rs20 million by the Pakistan Cricket Board. The penalty followed a controversial tweet about Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 opening ceremony at Gaddafi Stadium.
The PCB said the tweet violated several clauses of Naseem’s central contract and breached social media guidelines. In an official statement, the board explained that a show-cause notice had been issued on March 27, 2026, detailing the violations and requesting a formal response. After reviewing his reply, a three-member disciplinary committee conducted a personal hearing on March 30.
“Whilst noting the unconditional apology tendered, Naseem is found to have breached various clauses of his Central Contract and a fine of Rs. 2 crores has been imposed,” the PCB confirmed. The board also noted that Naseem had terminated his social media adviser, who is now blacklisted from working with any PCB-contracted players.
Naseem Shah Apologizes, Explains Circumstances
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), the 23-year-old fast bowler said the controversial post was made by his management team and did not reflect his personal views. However, he accepted full responsibility for the content shared from his account.
“The post was made by my management team and does not reflect my personal views,” Naseem wrote. “I take full responsibility and apologize for the incident. It was never my intention to disrespect anyone.”
Naseem’s apology came hours after the PCB announced disciplinary action. Initially, he had claimed that his account was hacked and that the post was not intentional. Despite this, the board held him accountable, reflecting the strict code of conduct expected from professional players.
Controversial Tweet Sparks Debate
The controversy began during PSL 11’s opening ceremony at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, where Maryam Nawaz attended as the guest of honor. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi welcomed her and introduced her to franchise owners and players. She also extended her best wishes to the participating teams.
Shortly afterward, a post from Naseem Shah’s X account drew widespread attention. The now-deleted tweet was a quote retweet of a PCB post showing Naqvi greeting Maryam Nawaz, with the caption: “Why is she being treat like the queen at Lords?”
The tweet quickly went viral, sparking debate across social media and within Pakistan’s cricket community. Analysts say the incident highlights the risks of player-managed social media accounts and the importance of professionalism both on and off the field.
Naseem Shah remains a rising star in Pakistani cricket. Fans are closely watching how he rebuilds his image and maintains discipline following the controversy.
