LAHORE: Pakistan fast bowler Naseem Shah has found himself at the center of a major social media storm following a controversial post targeting Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz during the opening match of PSL 11.The incident occurred at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, where Maryam Nawaz attended as the guest of honor for the season opener between Lahore Qalandars and Hyderabad Kingsmen.
A post from Naseem Shah’s official X account quickly went viral after it questioned the special treatment given to the Chief Minister.The now-deleted message, which quoted a video of PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi greeting Maryam Nawaz, read: “Why is she being treated like the queen at Lords?” The remark immediately sparked intense debate across social media, drawing mixed reactions from cricket fans and political observers alike.
Within minutes of the post going viral, it was removed from the platform. Shortly after, a clarification was issued from the same account stating that the profile had been compromised.The update informed followers that the account of Naseem was recently hacked but had been recovered successfully, distancing the cricketer from the controversial jibe.Despite the claim of a security breach, the internet responded with a mix of support and skepticism, with some users jokingly praising the fastest recovery in social media history.
The situation has escalated further as reports suggest the Pakistan Cricket Board has issued a show-cause notice to the young pacer. The PCB cited a potential violation of the central contract’s media policy and regulations. Naseem, who is representing a Rawalpindi-based franchise in PSL 2026, may face disciplinary action depending on his response to the board.
The controversy has overshadowed the on-field action of the PSL 11 opening weekend, which is already facing unique challenges, including matches being held behind closed doors due to regional security concerns. As the investigation into the alleged hacking continues, the cricketing community remains focused on whether this off-field incident will impact Naseem Shah’s participation in the remainder of the tournament.
