Pakistan fast bowler Naseem Shah has been hit with a massive PKR 20 million fine by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). The penalty was issued after the pacer made a controversial social media post questioning the VIP treatment given to a prominent politician at the opening match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026.
PCB slaps Naseem Shah with massive fine for political post
The controversy began at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore when Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz attended the tournament's closed-door opener as a state guest. Before the match between the Lahore Qalandars and the Hyderabad Kingsmen, Nawaz was officially introduced to the players and team executives.
Naseem publicly questioned the spectacle on X, writing, "Why is she treated like the queen at Lord’s?" While the post was taken down shortly after and Naseem claimed his account was compromised, the PCB cited him for violating his central contract and the board's media code of conduct.
The 21-year-old apologized unconditionally and met with a three-member disciplinary panel in Lahore on Monday. The PCB stated that Naseem had breached several clauses of his contract and confirmed that the bowler has fired his social media adviser, who is now banned from working with any PCB-contracted players.
PCB reeling amidst Iran conflict
The controversy comes at a tough time for cricket in Pakistan. Due to the regional impact of the Iran conflict, the current PSL season is being played behind closed doors. With rising fuel costs and government advisories restricting travel, organizers were forced to scrap plans to play across six cities, limiting the entire tournament to Lahore and Karachi.
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Pakistan cricket is no stranger to clamping down on political statements. Just last year, all-rounder Aamer Jamal was hit with a $4,000 fine after showing support for former Prime Minister Imran Khan during a match. Naseem's off-field troubles mirror his difficult start on the pitch with his new team, the Rawalpindi PindiZ. He recently gave away 51 runs without taking a wicket in a five-wicket loss to Peshawar Zalmi.