Sources close to the cricketer say Mohammad Rizwan, the wicketkeeper, has twice asked the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to speak with the press regarding the controversy over his omission from the Test squad. He requests was denied by the Board.
As sources point out, Rizwan had intended to reveal the whole episode and clarify the situation regarding his mobile phone that was said to be seized after Pakistan’s second Test match against England at Lord’s.
The development comes as part of a continuing disciplinary probe on the part of Rizwan and teammate batter Imam-ul-Haq.
The PCB earlier this month confirmed that it had launched an internal investigation after reports of discipline and conduct, without identifying the players involved or giving any details on the allegations.
The security officials of the team seized Rizwan and Imam’s mobile phones after Pakistan’s 194-run loss to England at Lord’s, it has been claimed. The devices were allegedly inspected in connection with a probe into alleged dressing-room information leaks.
The PCB has so far not confirmed that it has seized the phones or got access to their data, nor did it state that it would be treating unverified reports as facts.
Later, it was reported, however, that the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) was carrying out a forensic analysis of the players’ phones.
Further examination and investigation are still ongoing.
According to reports, Rizwan has also written a response to the NCCIA asking for clarifications regarding the summons and why he had not been able to get his mobile phone.
The controversy started when the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) made huge changes to the national side after the match in Lord’s. Rizwan, Imam and five other members of the touring team had been dropped from the squad as Pakistan were getting ready for the third Test against England.