Punjab govt denies role in cricketer Naseem Shah’s fine

Punjab Minister for Information and Culture Azma Bokhari has clarified that the provincial government has no role in the fine imposed on talented fast bowler Naseem Shah, stating that the matter falls entirely under the jurisdiction of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Speaking to the media, she emphasised that the issue is strictly governed by the PCB’s code of conduct and any disciplinary action taken is solely the board’s responsibility.

When asked for her personal opinion, Bokhari maintained a firm stance, saying she preferred not to comment further, as she had nothing positive to add. She also remarked that Naseem Shah, being a professional cricketer, should maintain appropriate conduct rather than behaving irresponsibly.

It is worth mentioning that Naseem Shah recently shared a post from his account on X in which he criticised Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. The post, which included a picture of the Chief Minister at Gaddafi Stadium, questioned why she was being treated “like the Queen of Lords.” The post was later deleted.

Subsequently, the PCB issued a show-cause notice to the fast bowler and fined him approximately Rs 20 million after disciplinary proceedings. Naseem Shah later issued a public apology, stating that the post did not reflect his personal views and had been shared by his management team. In a statement on X, he said he takes full responsibility for his account and has taken steps to prevent such incidents from happening again.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had earlier declared fast bowler Naseem Shah guilty and imposed a heavy fine on him. According to the PCB, Naseem Shah has been fined for violating the board’s central contract.

The PCB had issued a show-cause notice on March 27, 2026, seeking an explanation from Naseem Shah regarding the alleged violations. After receiving and reviewing his response, a three-member disciplinary committee heard the case on March 30. Following their review, the committee ruled that, despite his unconditional apology, Naseem Shah was found guilty of violating several clauses of the central contract and has been fined Rs 20 million.