Naseem Shah Fined $72,000 by PCB for Controversial Social Media Post

PCB Takes Action Against Naseem Shah

Lahore [Pakistan], March 30: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has imposed a hefty fine of USD 72,000 on fast bowler Naseem Shah following a controversial social media post that criticized Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. This action comes after PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi had previously announced that the Pakistan Super League (PSL) would take place without spectators, as reported by a leading sports news outlet.

Just two days after issuing a show-cause notice, the PCB confirmed the fine of PKR 2 crore (approximately USD 72,000) against Naseem.

Last week, Naqvi declared that the PSL matches would be held behind closed doors due to fuel conservation efforts amid the ongoing crisis in West Asia.

Despite this announcement, several prominent individuals, including Maryam Nawaz—daughter of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and niece of current Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif—attended the PSL opener at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. She was seen mingling with players and attendees, arriving with a significant security detail.

Naseem Shah's account had quote-tweeted a post from the PCB's media handle, questioning, "Why is she treated like the Queen at Lord's?" This tweet was deleted shortly after, with the player later claiming his account had been hacked.

A statement from the PCB revealed that a three-member disciplinary committee held a hearing today, during which Naseem Shah offered an unconditional apology and dismissed his social media manager.

The PCB further stated that the manager has been blacklisted and prohibited from working with any players under its jurisdiction.

According to the PCB, while acknowledging the apology, Naseem was found to have violated several clauses of his Central Contract, leading to the imposed fine. The PCB reiterated its commitment to maintaining professional standards and the integrity of the sport.