Dr. Niaz, who previously served as the Director of Sports at the state-run Pakistan Television Network, sent the notice via his lawyer after Shoaib reportedly referred to him as a “kit man” during his association with the Pakistan team.
“Shoaib commented on a podcast, saying, ‘Dr Nauman basically used to carry our bags for us in the team.’
Dr. Nauman acted as the data analyst for the Pakistan team on a few tours several years back when Shoaib was actively playing for the national side.
Shoaib criticized the contributions of coaches and managers, claiming Dr. Niaz was merely there to handle the players’ luggage.
“That is what he did in the team. I don’t know about anything else he did,” he remarked.
The notice demands an unconditional apology within 14 days, failing which legal action and damages will be pursued.
The two have a history of conflicts; during Imran Khan’s administration, Dr. Niaz asked Shoaib to leave a live show on PTV following a minor disagreement.
After intervention from a minister, he later apologized to the fast bowler, and they seemingly resolved their differences.
