The long standing dispute between former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar and sports anchor Dr. Noman Niaz has intensified. Dr. Noman Niaz has sent a legal notice to Akhtar, demanding one billion rupees in damages for defamation. This action follows controversial remarks made by Akhtar on a cricket show on May 25, 2025.

Dr. Niaz stated on social media that a “malicious character assassination campaign” against him had persisted for three years. He specifically highlighted Akhtar’s “insulting remarks” during episode 31 of ‘The Dugout,’ prompting him to take formal legal steps.

On the show, Shoaib Akhtar commented on the Pakistan cricket team’s management, saying Dr. Noman Niaz “used to carry our bags” and his “main job was to deliver our bags to the rooms.” Dr. Niaz’s legal team has labeled these statements as false and damaging to his reputation.

The legal notice, issued on May 29, states Akhtar’s comments have repeatedly harmed Dr. Niaz’s image and caused professional distress. It also emphasizes Dr. Niaz’s long career in sports journalism and his national honor. The notice warns that further legal action will be taken if Akhtar does not publicly apologize or retract his statements.

This isn’t their first public clash, as an on-air argument in 2021 also made headlines. While that incident was reportedly resolved, this new legal action clearly shows that the tension between Akhtar and Niaz remains, setting the stage for a significant legal dispute.