HBL PSL 2026: Naseem Shah ruled out of tournament due to injury setback

Team management says right-arm pacer picked up a side strain during their recent fixture against Karachi Kings, forcing him out of action for an indefinite period

RAWALPINDI: (UrduPoint /UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-April 6th, 2026) Naseem Shah has been sidelined from upcoming matches of HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 after suffering an injury, RawalPindiz confirmed on Monday.

The team management said that the right-arm pacer picked up a side strain during their recent fixture against Karachi Kings, forcing him out of action for an indefinite period.

The statement added that the team’s medical panel is closely overseeing his rehabilitation, with hopes that he may return later in the tournament, subject to fitness clearance.

The franchise expressed full support for the fast bowler, calling his role in the squad highly valuable and reaffirming its commitment to assist him throughout his recovery process.

The 25-year-old has struggled for form in the ongoing edition, managing just one wicket against Karachi and conceding heavily in his opening appearance.

Earlier, Shah also faced disciplinary action from the Pakistan cricket board (PCB) for violating multiple clauses of his central contract and social media policy. The issue arose after a controversial post was shared from his account during the PSL opening ceremony held at Gaddafi Stadium on March 27.

The ceremony was attended by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif as the chief guest, where PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi introduced her to franchise owners and players.

A post from Naseem’s account later questioned the protocol extended to the chief minister, sparking debate online. The pacer subsequently clarified that his account had been compromised and that the post was not made intentionally.

Despite the explanation, the PCB concluded that there had been a breach of contract terms and imposed a fine of Rs20 million on the player.