Pakistan, May 31 -- Television host and former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) official Dr Nauman Niaz has served a Rs1 billion defamation notice to former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar following controversial remarks made during a TV show on May 25.

On the programme The Dug Out, Shoaib stated that Dr Nauman "used to carry our bags" and was "kept for that purpose," remarks which quickly went viral across social media platforms.

Dr Nauman's legal team issued the notice on May 29, declaring the statements factually incorrect and damaging to his professional standing. The notice demands a public apology and retraction within 14 days, warning of legal action under the Defamation Ordinance 2002 if Shoaib fails to comply.

Dr Nauman, who has served ...