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PCB Fines Naseem Shah Rs20 Million Over Contract Breach

PCB fines fast bowler Naseem Shah Rs20m for contract and media policy violations after controversial social media post.
2026-03-30
PCB Fines Naseem Shah Rs20 Million Over Contract Breach

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has imposed a hefty fine of Rs20 million on fast bowler Naseem Shah for violating multiple clauses of his central contract, the board confirmed in a statement issued on Monday.

The disciplinary action follows a show-cause notice served to the cricketer last week for breaching contractual obligations as well as the PCB’s media policy and regulations. Naseem was asked to submit his response within a specified timeframe.

The controversy stemmed from a social media post allegedly made from Naseem’s account during the opening match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) at Gaddafi Stadium. In the post, he appeared to criticise Maryam Nawaz, who was attending the match as chief guest, questioning her protocol.

According to reports, the post was deleted shortly after publication and replaced with a clarification claiming that Naseem’s account had been hacked and later recovered.

Following the incident, the PCB convened a three-member disciplinary committee to review the matter. After evaluating Naseem’s written response and conducting a personal hearing, the committee concluded that although the player had offered an unconditional apology, he had nonetheless violated key provisions of his central contract.

As a result, the board imposed a fine of Rs20 million. The PCB further revealed that Naseem had already terminated his social media adviser, who will now be blacklisted from working with any player under the board’s jurisdiction.

Reaffirming its stance, the PCB stated that it remains committed to maintaining professional standards, enforcing contractual obligations, and preserving the integrity of the sport.

Under clause 2.23 of the PCB’s code of conduct, players are prohibited from making public criticism or inappropriate comments regarding the board, its officials, sponsors, or affiliated entities, including the International Cricket Council (ICC).

Meanwhile, the National Dialogue Committee (NDC), formed by former members of the PTI, criticised the PCB’s decision. In a statement, the committee described the move as excessive and warned that it could undermine democratic principles, particularly the right to freedom of expression.

The incident has sparked debate over the balance between professional conduct in sports and players’ freedom to express personal opinions, especially on political matters.