PSL 2026: The Pakistan Cricket Board found itself dealing with a major controversy after young pacer Naseem Shah landed in trouble over a social media post.
While the board eventually fined him PKR 20 million for violating multiple clauses of his central contract and social media guidelines, things could have been much worse.
Former Pakistan batter Basit Ali has now revealed that Naseem was close to facing a two-year ban before PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi stepped in at the last moment.
What Happened During the PSL 2026 Opener
The controversy began during the PSL 2026 opening match between Lahore Qalandars and Hyderabad Kingsmen at the Gaddafi Stadium.
Before the match, a small ceremony was held where Maryam Nawaz was present. Despite matches being played without fans, her appearance caught attention.
Soon after, Naseem took to X and posted: 'Why is she treated like the Queen at Lord's?'
The tweet was deleted within minutes, and another post followed, claiming that his account had been hacked. However, the PCB did not take the matter lightly and issued a show-cause notice.
Naseem Shah's First Reaction to the Controversy
As the situation picked up attention, Naseem quickly responded by trying to clarify what had happened. He removed the original tweet and shared a follow-up message addressing the issue. In his statement, he distanced himself from the earlier post and took responsibility for his platform.
Here's exactly what he wrote: 'A recent post from my account was made by my management team and does not reflect my views. I take full responsibility for my platform and have implemented the necessary changes to ensure this does not happen again. I sincerely apologise to everyone affected by this misuse of my platform.'
PCB Confirms Breach and Announces Fine
After reviewing the situation, the PCB confirmed that the 23-year-old had indeed breached his contract. A three-member disciplinary committee held a personal hearing on March 30 before reaching a decision.
"Whilst noting the unconditional apology tendered, Naseem is found to have breached various clauses of his Central Contract and a fine of PKR 2 crores has been imposed," PCB said in its official communication.
"It was noted that Naseem Shah's social media adviser has already been terminated by Naseem and shall be blacklisted by the PCB from associating with any player falling under the PCB's jurisdiction," the board added.
Basit Ali Reveals What Happened Behind the Scenes
Basit Ali shared some surprising details, claiming that the disciplinary committee had initially recommended a much stricter punishment.
"Naseem Shah is very lucky. Let me tell you the inside news. He was to be banned for two years; the committee had recommended it. The credit goes to Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, as he had no. He told them not to ban Naseem Shah for two years and just hand him a monetary penalty," Basit Ali said on Ary News.
"Naqvi said that it was about his future. Naseem could give the money because he plays in the PSL and other leagues. Naqvi told the committee that one shouldn't play with someone's career. It is a good decision by Mohsin Naqvi," he added.
Advice for Players From Basit Ali
Basit also used this moment to send out an important message to players about being more careful with their contracts. He stressed that players should personally go through the terms instead of leaving it to their managers.
"When the players sign the central contract, all these things are written there. All the clauses are there. Why do our players not read these things at that time? Why do you send your managers?" said Basit.
"If the players themselves read, they would be more informed about it. However, it is a good call by the PCB chief. Two years is way too much," he added.