Pakistan’s Naseem Shah has come under fire for criticizing the presence of politicians at the start of a PSL match played behind closed doors in Lahore.
Published March 28, 2026
The Pakistan Cricket Board has attacked fast bowler Naseem Shah for criticizing the presence of politicians at the start of the opening match of the Pakistan Super League, which is being played behind closed doors.
Fans are not allowed to watch matches at the country’s premier domestic tournament, which was originally scheduled to be held at six venues but has now been reduced to just two, in Lahore and Karachi.
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The conflict in the Middle East has caused exorbitant fuel prices in the region, and the Pakistani government has urged people to limit travel and work from home.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz was invited to Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on Thursday along with other dignitaries to be introduced to officials and players from the eight franchises ahead of the tournament’s opening match between defending champions Lahore Qalandars and debutants Hyderabad Kingsman.
Shah commented on the opening match by PCB in a tweet, in which the bowler said of X: “Why is she being treated like a queen at Lord’s?” An obvious reference to Nawaz’s presence at the stadium. He quickly deleted the post and later stated that his account had originally been hacked.
The PCB said in a statement that Shah was issued a notice for violating the terms of the central contract and media policies and regulations.
“The show cause notice was served in accordance with the PCB’s disciplinary framework,” the PCB said. “Mr. Naseem Shah is required to respond within the stipulated time. After receiving and considering his response, the PCB will decide on further action in line with regulations.”
Last year, Pakistani all-rounder Aamer Jamal was fined $4,000 for raising slogans in support of Pakistan’s imprisoned cricket great Imran Khan.
Shah will play for new PSL franchise Rawalpindi Pindies in Saturday’s match against former Pakistan all-format captain Babar Azam’s Peshawar Zalmi.
A right-arm fast bowler, Shah played 20 Test matches, 34 One-Day Internationals and 37 T20 games for Pakistan, taking a total of 152 wickets.
