Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan and opening batter Imam-ul-Haq have been barred from participating in domestic cricket.
Reportedly, both players will be unable to take part in the upcoming President’s Trophy Grade-I tournament. The issue is linked to a mandatory fitness requirement for players participating in the competition.
Every player must undergo a fitness test before taking part in the tournament. However, Rizwan and Imam did not appear for the required fitness tests for their respective departmental teams.
Imam-ul-Haq had been named captain of the Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) squad. Meanwhile, Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited had appointed Mohammad Rizwan as its vice-captain.
Rizwan, Imam appear before NCCIA
Previously, Rizwan and Imam appeared before the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) in Lahore on Thursday.
According to the report, they were summoned in connection with an investigation into alleged dressing-room information leaks during Pakistan’s recent tour of England. Both players appeared after receiving NCCIA notices and requested more time to submit their written responses.
The NCCIA is examining information obtained from their mobile phones, including their activities and contacts during the England tour. The agency is also investigating the alleged leaking of information from Pakistan’s dressing room.
According to sources, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) handed the players’ mobile phones to the NCCIA. Another Pakistan player has also reportedly received a notice from the cybercrime agency.
PCB conduct inquiry underway
The PCB had earlier called seven players back to Pakistan following heavy defeats in the first two Tests against England. They included Rizwan, Imam, T20 captain Salman Ali Agha, Ali Usman, Aamer Jamal, Awais Zafar and Khurram Shahzad.
Following Pakistan’s 194-run defeat in the second Test at Lord’s, Rizwan and Imam’s phones were reportedly taken by the team’s security officer. The devices were returned several hours later after data was allegedly copied from them.
The PCB has continued to review the conduct and activities of the players during the team’s stay in London as part of its disciplinary proceedings