LAHORE – Pakistan cricket was already reeling from bruising England Test series, but the drama has now taken an unexpected turn. Imam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Rizwan have reportedly been summoned by the NCCIA over data extracted from their mobile phones, adding another twist to the growing crisis surrounding the national team.
National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) summoned star cricketers Imam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Rizwan, along with another player, for questioning over data retrieved from their mobile phones.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) took the players’ mobile phones into custody and reportedly handed them over to the relevant authorities. The NCCIA is now looking into data extracted from the devices as part of ongoing inquiry. Formal notices have been issued to the three cricketers, with investigators expected to question them about information found during the examination of their phones.
The probe has added another dramatic twist to an already turbulent period for Pakistan cricket. The PCB has yet to publicly explain why the phones were seized or what specific matter prompted the investigation, leaving key questions surrounding the inquiry unanswered.
NCCIA development comes against the backdrop of Pakistan’s disappointing start to the recent Test series against England, where the national side suffered heavy defeats in the first two matches. After Pakistan’s embarrassing loss at Lord’s, the PCB reportedly launched a major shake-up, removing seven players and two coaches from the setup.
The players dropped from the squad included Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Ali Usman, Aamer Jamal, Owais Zafar and Khurram Shahzad. The coaching setup also underwent a major overhaul, with head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul removed from their respective positions.
White-ball head coach Mike Hesson and bowling coach Ashley Noffke were handed additional responsibilities as part of the restructuring.
The latest investigation follows another move by the PCB earlier this month, when the board sought a written explanation from a member of the national selection committee over the inclusion of Imam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Rizwan in Pakistan’s Test squads for the 2026 tours of the West Indies and England.
PCB questioned the basis on which the two players were shortlisted during a selection meeting held on June 2. The board specifically sought details about the performance criteria, factors and rationale used in reaching the selection decision. Cricket Board described the matter as “highly important and urgent” and directed the concerned selection committee member to submit a written response within 24 hours of receiving the notice.
‘Imran Khan’s Health cannot be compromised’: Wasim Akram takes stand for jailed former skipper
