The long-standing feud between former Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Akhtar and sports journalist Dr. Nauman Niaz has resurfaced, triggering legal consequences. Dr Niaz has issued a legal notice against Akhtar for allegedly making false and defamatory comments during a cricket show.
Shoaib Akhtar’s Controversial Comment on Tamasha
During Episode 31 of The Dug Out, streamed on Tamasha on May 25, 2025, Shoaib Akhtar stirred controversy. While speaking casually, he claimed:
“Yeh Dr. Nauman Niaz hamarey bag uthata tha, humney issey bag uthaney ke liye rakha hua tha.”
The statement implied that Dr. Nauman once carried his bags, suggesting a subordinate role in the past.
Legal Notice Sent for Defamation
Dr. Nauman Niaz, through his lawyer Qazi Umair Ali, sent a legal notice on May 29, 2025. The notice states that Shoaib’s remarks are false, offensive, and damaging to Dr. Niaz’s professional standing and personal integrity.
It further highlights Dr. Niaz’s achievements, including
- His decades-long contribution to sports journalism
- Key roles in the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)
- His recognition with the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz
The notice demands a public apology or statement retraction, failing which further action will be pursued under Pakistan’s Defamation Ordinance 2002.
A History of Public Clashes
This is not the first time tensions between the two have escalated. In 2021, Shoaib Akhtar famously walked off a live PTV Sports show following an on-air dispute with Dr. Niaz. Although the incident was seemingly resolved, friction between the two personalities has persisted.
Conclusion
The latest Shoaib Akhtar-Dr. Nauman Niaz controversy once again puts a spotlight on their troubled relationship. With legal threats now involved, the dispute may soon play out in court unless a resolution is reached publicly.
Stay connected with Closeup Pakistan on X (Twitter), LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook for the latest updates on Sports, business, Shipping, technology, and Current affairs in Pakistan.
