PCB clears Muhammad Rizwan to play domestic cricket amid ongoing inquiry

New Delhi: Wicketkeeper-batter Muhammad Rizwan has been allowed by the to play in domestic cricket amid the ongoing inquiry into allegations of online betting, gambling and the leaking of dressing-room information.

Former Pakistan captain Muhammad Hafeez, director and head coach of Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL), has confirmed that he had received an email from the Pakistan board’s domestic department allowing Rizwan to play in the ongoing Presidents Cup first-class tournament from October 19. The fifth round of the Presidents Cup first-class tournament started on Monday, with Rizwan set to captain the SNGPL team, Hafeez said.

Muhammad Rizwan and his Pakistan teammate Imam-ul-Haq were banned from featuring in domestic cricket after being recalled from England following the second Test in August. Both players are facing an inquiry by the National Cyber Crime Cell (NCCA) over alleged leaks of dressing-room information and matters related to online betting and gambling.

Muhammad Rizwan’s inquiry expected to conclude soon

Rizwan has been questioned by the NCCA twice, but the exact nature of the allegations being investigated by the government agency remains unclear. Their phones were also confiscated by security personnel accompanying the Pakistan team during the second Test at Lord’s and are currently with the NCCA for forensic analysis.

While Imam has mostly stayed away from the spotlight, Rizwan has remained in the headlines over his response to the inquiry. However, a reliable source told PTI on Sunday that the matter had largely cooled down following his last questioning session with the NCCA in Lahore on October 10.

The source further added that the investigation could be wrapped up soon. Rizwan, who featured in 47 Tests, 103 ODIs and 106 T20Is, has not played competitive cricket since the second Test at Lord’s.

(With inputs from PTI)