Rawalpindi Pindiz fast bowler Naseem Shah has been ruled out of the upcoming matches in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 due to injury, the franchise confirmed in an official statement on Monday.
Injury Details and Recovery Plan
According to team management, the right-arm pacer sustained a side injury during Pindiz’s recent match against Karachi Kings. Following medical assessment, he has been sidelined for the foreseeable future.
The franchise stated that its medical staff are closely monitoring his recovery, with a potential return later in the tournament still possible, depending on his rehabilitation progress and fitness clearance.
“The team stands firmly with Naseem Shah during this challenging period and remains fully committed to supporting him through his recovery,” the statement said.
Importance to the Team
The franchise described Naseem’s presence in the squad as “invaluable,” highlighting his role as a key pace option. Officials expressed hope that he would return stronger and contribute in the latter stages of the tournament if his recovery progresses well.
Performance in PSL 11 So Far
The 25-year-old had a difficult start to the ongoing PSL season. He managed to take just one wicket against Karachi Kings and went wicketless in his opening match, conceding 51 runs. His form, combined with the recent injury, has added to the team’s challenges early in the tournament.
Off-Field Controversy and Fine
Naseem Shah had already faced a setback earlier in PSL 11 after being found in breach of multiple clauses of the Pakistan Cricket Board’s central contract and social media guidelines. The decision followed a personal hearing conducted by a three-member disciplinary committee of the Pakistan Cricket Board.
PSL 11: Fakhar Zaman Appeals Two-Match Ban Over Ball-Tampering Charge
The controversy originated during the PSL 11 opening ceremony held at Gaddafi Stadium on March 27, where Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz attended as the chief guest. During the event, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi introduced her to franchise owners and players.
Shortly after the ceremony, a post from Naseem Shah’s account on X raised questions about the treatment of the chief minister, sparking widespread debate on social media.
Naseem Shah’s Response
Addressing the situation, Naseem clarified that the post was not intentional and claimed his account had been hacked.
“This account was recently hacked but has now been recovered successfully,” he stated, attributing the incident to a security breach rather than deliberate action.
Despite his explanation, the PCB concluded that he had violated contract clauses and imposed a fine of Rs20 million.
Naseem Shah’s absence due to injury, combined with earlier off-field issues, marks a challenging phase for both the player and his franchise. As PSL 11 progresses, his potential return later in the tournament could prove crucial for Rawalpindi Pindiz’s campaign.
