PCB Imposes One-Crore Fine for Unauthorised Posts

khaborwala online desk

Published: 02 Apr 2026, 06:37 pm

Photo: Collected

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has introduced stringent regulations governing the social media activities of its contracted players, signalling a zero-tolerance approach to unauthorised online posts. According to reports, any cricket player posting content on social media without prior approval from the PCB’s media department could face substantial financial penalties.

Under the new directive, political or controversial posts are strictly prohibited. Players found violating these rules may incur a minimum fine of PKR 10 million (approximately BDT 1 crore). The regulations form part of the central contracts issued to all national cricketers, which now explicitly integrate a social media compliance framework.

PCB Social Media Policy at a Glance

Policy Area	Requirement	Penalty
Unauthorised Posts	Players must obtain prior approval from PCB’s media department before posting	Minimum PKR 10 million fine
Political or Controversial Content	Strictly prohibited	Up to PKR 20 million fine and potential suspension
Contracted Players	Policy applies to all centrally contracted players	Enforcement through fines or disciplinary action
Offensive/Breach Content	Posts mocking officials, politicians, or events	Investigated by PCB; penalties vary based on severity

The new rules have sparked debate over freedom of expression, with critics suggesting they could unduly restrict players’ personal liberties online.

The policy was brought sharply into the public eye following an incident involving fast bowler Naseem Shah. During the opening match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), a photograph of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz being welcomed by PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi was shared on social media. Naseem Shah commented on the post, questioning, “Why is she always accorded the respect of the ‘Queen of Lords’?” He deleted the comment shortly after, but not before it had already drawn widespread attention.

Naseem later claimed that his account had been hacked. However, the PCB remained firm, issuing him a show-cause notice. Despite his unconditional apology, he was fined PKR 20 million on 30 March, making it one of the largest fines in the history of international cricket.

The PCB’s disciplinary committee had also recommended a two-year suspension, but chairman Mohsin Naqvi intervened, preventing its enforcement.

The PCB has emphasised that the policy is designed to safeguard the reputation of cricket in Pakistan and prevent the spread of unverified or inflammatory content online. Contracted players are now required to exercise caution and seek prior approval for any public online communication to avoid severe financial or professional consequences.

With these measures, the PCB has clearly signalled that unauthorised social media activity will no longer be tolerated, marking a new era of strict governance in Pakistani cricket.