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Mohammad Rizwan Betting Probe: PCB Denies Media Permission Twice, Pakistan Star Wanted to Clarify Case

Posted on 22nd Sep 2026 02:27 pm by rohit kumar

Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan has reportedly been denied permission by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on two occasions to speak publicly about the ongoing National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) inquiry.

 

According to reports, Rizwan wanted to address the controversy surrounding the investigation, explain his position and clarify the circumstances surrounding the seizure of his mobile phone following Pakistan's Lord's Test against England. Both requests were reportedly rejected by the PCB.

 

The development comes as the NCCIA continues its inquiry involving Rizwan and fellow Pakistan batter Imam-ul-Haq. The investigation has included allegations related to online betting and gambling, as well as reported inquiries into digital information, financial dealings and alleged dressing-room information leaks.

 

Importantly, no final finding of wrongdoing against Rizwan or Imam-ul-Haq has been announced.

 

Why Did Mohammad Rizwan Want to Speak to the Media?

 

According to sources cited by Geo News, Rizwan wanted to publicly explain his position and the sequence of events surrounding the NCCIA investigation.

 

He also reportedly wanted to address the circumstances in which his mobile phone was taken into custody after the Lord's Test and provide clarification regarding a letter he had written to the International Cricket Council (ICC).

 

Daily Times reported that Rizwan sought permission under the terms of his PCB central contract and that his intention was to explain his position rather than accuse the PCB or another organisation.

 

Why Did the PCB Deny Rizwan Permission?

 

Rizwan's central contract reportedly requires players to obtain permission before making public statements concerning matters covered by their contractual relationship with the PCB.

 

Reports citing sources said Rizwan requested permission twice but was denied on both occasions.

 

The restrictions come as the NCCIA inquiry remains active, meaning public comments from a centrally contracted player could potentially overlap with an ongoing investigation.

 

What Is the NCCIA Investigating?

 

The NCCIA's inquiry involves allegations concerning online betting and gambling in Pakistan cricket. Reports have also linked the investigation to alleged leaks of information from Pakistan's dressing room during the team's England tour.

 

Rizwan has challenged aspects of the investigation, including the basis and jurisdiction of the NCCIA notice.

 

The Lahore High Court, however, dismissed his petition challenging the proceedings and directed him to respond to the agency's notice and cooperate with the inquiry.

 

What Happened to Rizwan's Mobile Phone?

 

Rizwan's mobile phone was taken into custody following the Lord's Test during Pakistan's tour of England.

 

His lawyer, Qazi Umair Ali, told the Lahore High Court that Rizwan had been called to a hotel lobby, questioned and asked to hand over his phone. According to the lawyer's account, Rizwan was initially told that the device would be returned within a few hours.

 

The phone was subsequently subjected to forensic examination, according to reports.

 

The investigation has reportedly involved examination of digital information, including messages, contacts and social media activity, alongside financial information.

 

Rizwan Challenged the NCCIA Notice in Lahore High Court

 

Rizwan approached the Lahore High Court after receiving the NCCIA notice.

 

His legal team questioned the basis and jurisdiction of the inquiry and argued that the notice did not clearly identify a specific illegal activity allegedly involving the cricketer.

 

On September 17, the Lahore High Court declined to interfere with the inquiry at that stage and directed Rizwan to respond to the agency.

 

A subsequent written order stated that a call-up notice is a procedural mechanism for gathering information and does not by itself amount to a finding of wrongdoing. The court also directed Rizwan to cooperate and instructed the NCCIA not to subject him to harassment or unnecessary inconvenience.

 

Imam-ul-Haq Also Questioned

 

Rizwan is not the only Pakistan cricketer involved in the NCCIA inquiry.

 

Imam-ul-Haq also appeared before the agency after being summoned. Reports said both players were questioned in Lahore earlier this month.

 

The investigation reportedly covers their digital records and other information connected with the England tour.

 

Both Rizwan and Imam were among the players recalled to Pakistan during the England Test tour.

 

Why Were Rizwan and Imam's Phones Examined?

 

The mobile-phone examination forms part of the broader inquiry.

 

Reports have said investigators are examining digital records and communications, while the agency has also sought information relating to financial dealings and other aspects of the players' activities.

 

The investigation reportedly began following concerns raised around Pakistan's England tour and alleged dressing-room information leaks. The PCB had also announced an internal disciplinary inquiry concerning discipline and conduct during the series.

 

What Happens Next for Mohammad Rizwan?

 

For now, the NCCIA inquiry remains ongoing. Rizwan has been directed by the Lahore High Court to cooperate with the investigation, while the agency has been instructed to follow the law and avoid unnecessary harassment.

 

Meanwhile, reports indicate that Rizwan's attempts to obtain PCB permission to publicly explain his position have been unsuccessful.

 

The situation could develop further once the NCCIA completes its investigation and any findings or subsequent action become known.

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