Mohammad Rizwan's recent exclusion from the Pakistan Test squad has sparked significant controversy, leading to a series of investigations and disciplinary actions that have captured the attention of cricket fans and analysts alike. After being dropped following a disappointing performance in the first two Tests against England, Rizwan's situation has escalated, involving inquiries from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency.
On August 31, the PCB made sweeping changes to its Test squad after Pakistan's lackluster performance in the series, which included losses in the first two matches. Rizwan, along with fellow players Imam-ul-Haq and Salman Ali Agha, was sent home ahead of the third Test at Edgbaston. His batting form had been under scrutiny, as he managed only 12 and 41 runs at Headingley and a mere seven and one at Lord’s, following a disappointing tour of the West Indies where he scored just 41 runs across three innings. Additionally, concerns were raised regarding his wicketkeeping, particularly his decision not to stand up to the stumps against Joe Root, a player known to struggle with lbw dismissals.
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi indicated that the decision to drop Rizwan was influenced by factors beyond mere performance, though he did not elaborate on what those factors were. Following this, the PCB sought clarification from its selection committee regarding the rationale behind selecting Rizwan and Imam for the tours, especially given their recent form.
As developments unfolded, Misbah-ul-Haq resigned from the selection committee on September 1, reportedly due to not being consulted about the changes made to the squad. This resignation added another layer of complexity to the situation surrounding Rizwan and the PCB's decision-making process.
On September 7, the PCB announced the initiation of an internal disciplinary inquiry, citing media reports about the conduct of players during the England tour. While the PCB did not name Rizwan or any other player in connection with the inquiry, it was reported that players' mobile phones were examined following the defeat at Lord's, with data allegedly downloaded from these devices.
The investigation took a more serious turn when Rizwan and Imam were summoned by Pakistan's National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency on September 10. The questioning reportedly lasted several hours and covered various personal details, including their travel and financial histories. However, the exact reasons for their questioning were not disclosed, leaving many to speculate about the implications.
On September 16, Rizwan challenged the NCCIA's summons in the Lahore High Court, questioning the agency's jurisdiction over the matter. He claimed that he was called to the team hotel lobby at an unusual hour and had his mobile phone taken for examination, which had not been returned. Rizwan's legal representatives argued that if the investigation involved corruption or betting, it should fall under the jurisdiction of the ICC's Anti-Corruption Unit.
However, the Lahore High Court dismissed Rizwan's petition on September 17, directing him to respond to the NCCIA's inquiries without seeking court intervention. This ruling did not imply any wrongdoing on Rizwan's part but emphasized the need for him to cooperate with the ongoing investigation.
In a further development, Rizwan reached out to the ICC's Anti-Corruption Unit on September 18, seeking clarification regarding the investigation and the seizure of his mobile phone. He used the ICC's portal to inquire whether the ICC was aware of or involved in the actions taken against him, highlighting the seriousness of the situation and his desire for transparency.
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