Pakistani Cricketer Mentions Rahul Gandhi

Pakistani cricketer Naseem Shah faced the wrath of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) after posting a political comment against Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi. Former Pakistani cricketer Kamran Akmal defended Naseem, questioning whether any Team India player posts in support of political leaders. Akmal emphasized that cricketers should remain neutral and avoid politics. The controversy also involved Mariam Nawaz, whose special protocol arrangements at a PSL opening ceremony triggered Naseem’s criticism. His social media post went viral, forcing him to apologize, but screenshots continued to circulate online.

PCB imposed a record fine of 20 million Pakistani rupees (around Rs. 67 lakh) on Naseem Shah, equivalent to his eight-month central contract earnings. Kamran Akmal clarified that the PCB protected Naseem by fining him rather than banning him, saving his career. Akmal also noted that Naseem’s bowling speed has dropped from 145–150 km/h to 135–137 km/h and urged focus on cricket rather than unnecessary debates. He praised Naseem’s talent and hard work at a young age and suggested thanking the PCB chairman for safeguarding his career.