PCB investigates Mohammad Nawaz after reported positive drug test

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has started an investigation into Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz after a reported positive test for recreational drug use.

A PCB spokesperson said the board had received formal communication from the International Cricket Council (ICC) and had initiated the required process. The spokesperson said, “The ICC has informed the PCB about this matter, and the board has begun due process. The outcome will be communicated to the ICC.”

According to the PCB spokesperson cited by Dawn, the board would inform the ICC about the player’s medical history after completing its inquiry. He also said that until then, Nawaz would continue to play for Multan Sultans in the ongoing HBL Pakistan Super League.

Test linked to T20 World Cup

Reports said the sample in question was taken during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup earlier this year. ESPNcricinfo reported that the positive result stemmed from testing during that tournament.

Nawaz, 32, played all seven of Pakistan’s matches in the event. During the competition, he scored 15 runs and took seven wickets before Pakistan were knocked out at the Super Eight stage.

The ICC has not issued a public statement on the matter. Dawn reported that the ICC declined to comment.

PSL participation continues

Nawaz is currently representing Multan Sultans in PSL 11. While the investigation is under way, he is set to continue appearing for the franchise, according to the PCB spokesperson quoted by Dawn.

The case has emerged during an important stage of the PSL season, with the PCB’s process expected to determine what action, if any, follows.

Surrey move falls through

The development has also affected Nawaz’s planned stint in England’s T20 Blast. Reports said his proposed move to Surrey County Cricket Club did not go ahead after the positive test.

Nawaz had earlier obtained a No-Objection Certificate from the PCB and was due to feature in the tournament, which is scheduled to run from late May to mid-July. Dawn, citing ESPNcricinfo, said the T20 Blast is set to run from May 26 to July 18.

Express Tribune reported that Surrey opted not to proceed with the signing, while Dawn said the deal had fallen through as a result of the reported test. Both reports said Surrey declined to comment. “The ICC has informed the PCB about this matter, and the board has begun due process. The outcome will be communicated to the ICC,” the spokesperson said.

The matter remains under review by the PCB.