The fast bowler is currently under close observation, with the franchise stating that a return later in the tournament remains a possibility.
Rawalpindi’s pacer Naseem Shah has been ruled out of the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 matches for the foreseeable future due to injury.
In a statement issued on Monday, the franchise confirmed that Shah has been sidelined after picking up a side strain during their recent match against Karachi Kings.
The team’s medical staff are closely monitoring his recovery and are hopeful of a possible return later in the tournament, subject to rehabilitation progress and fitness clearance, the statement said.
The Pindiz expressed full support for the right-arm pacer during this difficult phase, saying they remain committed to helping him through his recovery process.
The franchise also described the fast bowler’s presence in the squad as “invaluable” and added that they look forward to his return to the field stronger than before.
It is worth noting that the 25-year-old had a difficult start to the ongoing tournament, taking only one wicket against the Kings and going wicketless while conceding 51 runs in his first appearance for Pindiz.
Earlier, the pacer also faced a setback at the beginning of the event after being found in breach of several clauses of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) central contract and social media guidelines, following a hearing by a three-member disciplinary committee.
The controversy originated from the PSL 11 opening ceremony at Gaddafi Stadium on March 27, which was attended by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz as guest of honour.
During the event, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi welcomed the chief minister and introduced her to franchise owners, while players from both sides were also presented ahead of the curtain-raiser.
Shortly after, a post from Shah’s X (formerly Twitter) account questioned the treatment of CM Maryam at the ceremony, sparking debate on social media.
In response, Shah clarified that his account had been hacked and the post was not made by him, stating that it was a security breach rather than a deliberate act.
However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) still found him in violation of multiple central contract clauses, imposing a fine of Rs20 million.
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