Pakistan fast bowler Naseem Shah has been fined heavily by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) over a controversial social media post targeting Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. The disciplinary action comes two days after the PCB issued a show-cause notice to Naseem. The PCB imposed a fine of PKR 20 million (approximately USD 70,000) on Naseem Shah, which is believed to be the largest financial penalty in Pakistan cricket history.
The board stated that Shah had breached multiple clauses of his central contract, particularly those relating to player conduct and social media guidelines. Naseem Shah, representing Rawalpindi’s newly introduced franchise in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), posted the controversial tweet ahead of the tournament’s opening fixture. The post reportedly questioned the VIP treatment given to the Punjab Chief Minister at a match. The timing of the incident added fuel to the fire because a few days back, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi had announced that the PSL would be held without spectators due to Pakistan’s urgent need to conserve fuel amid the ongoing West Asia crisis.
Despite the no-spectator directive, several high-profile dignitaries were present at the stadium. Among them was Maryam Nawaz, whose appearance drew significant attention. She was seen interacting with officials and players from both competing sides, Lahore Qalandars and Hyderabad Kingsmen. In a statement, the PCB said that Naseem Shah was "found to have breached various clauses of his central contract" and that the PCB would remain committed to "upholding professional standards, contractual obligations and the integrity of the game". Naseem Shah appeared before a three-member disciplinary committee in Lahore on Monday and was found guilty. During the proceedings, Naseem Shah issued an unconditional apology, accepting responsibility for the post.