LAHORE, June 3 — Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has been served a Rs1 billion defamation notice by sports journalist and ex-PCB official Dr Nauman Niaz, reigniting a long-running feud between the two public figures.
Basis of the Legal Action
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Notice dated May 29: Niaz claims Akhtar made “baseless” and “unethical” comments during a May 25 television appearance.
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Alleged statement: Akhtar said Niaz “used to carry our bags” and “was kept for that purpose,” comments the notice describes as “factually incorrect” and damaging to Niaz’s dignity.
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Defamatory language: The letter states Akhtar’s remarks were intended to “destroy” Niaz’s reputation, causing him ridicule, contempt, and potential financial loss.
Demands and Deadline
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Public apology and retraction: Niaz is giving Akhtar 14 days to withdraw his remarks.
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Potential lawsuit: Failure to comply will trigger legal proceedings under Pakistan’s Defamation Ordinance 2002, seeking Rs1 billion in damages.
Akhtar’s Response
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Reaction on X (formerly Twitter): The former pacer called the notice “legally defective, unfounded, ego-satisfying and utterly frivolous.”
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Legal counsel engaged: Akhtar says he has instructed his lawyer to issue a “befitting reply.”
History of Past Disputes
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2021 on-air clash: Niaz told Akhtar to leave a PTV Sports program after a heated exchange over talent identification in the PSL.
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Aftermath: Akhtar resigned live on air; Niaz later issued an unconditional apology, admitting his outburst was “unbecoming.”
Next Steps
With the 14-day deadline now running, the dispute is poised either for a public reconciliation or another highly publicized legal battle—adding another chapter to one of Pakistani cricket media’s most controversial rivalries.
