PCB issues show-cause notice to Naseem Shah over controversial social media post

The Pakistan cricket board issued a show-cause notice to Naseem Shah over a social media post. The pacer must respond as the board reviews disciplinary action.

In Short

• PCB issued a show-cause notice to Naseem Shah
• The notice relates to a deleted social media post
• Post questioned Maryam Nawaz's treatment at PSL event

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued a show-cause notice to fast bowler Naseem Shah for allegedly violating the terms of his central contract and media regulations. The development comes just a day after a controversial social media post from his account during the opening night of the Pakistan Super League 2026 season.

The post, which was later deleted, appeared to question the treatment of Maryam Nawaz, the Chief Minister of Pakistan’s Punjab province, at the event. In an official statement, the Pakistan Cricket Board confirmed that disciplinary proceedings had been initiated on the pacer's actions.

“Naseem Shah is required to provide a response within the stipulated time.”

“The PCB remains committed to upholding professional standards, contractual obligations, and the integrity of the game.”

The board did not specify the exact clause breached but indicated that the matter would be reviewed after receiving Naseem’s response.

WHAT WAS NASEEM SHAH'S CONTROVERSIAL POST ABOUT?

The controversy stemmed from a post shared on Naseem’s X account during the PSL opener at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. The post included a video of Maryam Nawaz arriving at the venue and read: “Why is she treated like a queen at Lord’s?”

The post was quickly deleted, and a follow-up message claimed that Naseem’s account had been hacked and later recovered. However, the explanation did not prevent the issue from escalating.

The incident gained further attention as it came on a high-profile opening night attended by dignitaries, despite earlier decisions to limit public attendance due to external factors.

WHAT HAS PCB SAID ON NASEEM SHAH?

The PCB maintained that the pacer’s actions potentially breached both contractual obligations and media policies, which prohibit public criticism or inappropriate remarks related to officials, institutions or stakeholders.

The board has taken a firm stance on player conduct in recent times, particularly around public statements and political references. The case will now proceed based on Naseem’s explanation, following which any disciplinary action will be decided.

Naseem, who represents Rawalpindi Pindiz in the PSL, is expected to feature in their upcoming fixture against Peshawar Zalmi. However, the focus remains on how the PCB handles the situation as it looks to reinforce its code of conduct.

- Ends