The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has now put stricter rules in place for players when it comes to social media. All centrally contracted cricketers have been told they must get approval from the board’s media team before posting anything online.
PCB's new rule for contracted players
According to reports, if a player shares something controversial, they could be fined at least PKR 10 million (around ₹34 lakh). This step is part of a broader reminder from the PCB to follow contract rules, especially regarding discipline and public behaviour. The board has made it clear that players must be careful about what they say online.
Naseem Shah fined
The decision comes after a recent issue involving fast bowler Naseem Shah. He was fined PKR 20 million (around ₹68 lakh) for a tweet that appeared to target Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.
ALSO READ: 'Huge expectation within IPL': AUS coach jumps in Green's defense post-KKR debut
The incident happened during the opening match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. Maryam Nawaz was present at the venue along with other guests, which drew attention because PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi had earlier said the tournament would be limited due to the ongoing petroleum crisis.
Naseem posted on X, saying, “Why is she treated like the queen at Lord’s?” The post was quickly deleted, and he later claimed his account had been hacked. After receiving a notice, Naseem apologised, appeared before a disciplinary panel, and also removed his social media manager.
ALSO READ: Absent from Team IND for nearly 5 yrs, RCB's Krunal says 'sometimes it hurts'
What PCB told players
Following this, the PCB has clearly told players and their managers that political comments on social media will not be allowed. The board is taking a strict stand and has said there will be zero tolerance for such behaviour.
There have already been several controversies during this PSL season, including ball-tampering allegations and issues related to hotel security breaches. Reports also suggest that Mohsin Naqvi is growing frustrated with the repeated problems.