Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has initiated an investigation into all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz following a positive test for recreational drug use during the recent T20 World Cup. Consequently, Nawaz’s planned move to Surrey for England’s T20 Blast has fallen through, as confirmed by an ESPNcricnfo report.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has alerted PCB about the situation, prompting PCB to commence the necessary procedures. A PCB spokesperson mentioned that the outcomes of this process will be conveyed to the ICC promptly.
Nawaz, who participated in Pakistan’s T20 World Cup squad, had a lackluster performance in the tournament, managing only 15 runs and seven wickets across seven matches. Despite being set to join Surrey for the T20 Blast, the issuance of a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) by PCB and the subsequent signing announcement have been revoked.
Known for his T20I prowess, Nawaz ranks as the fourth-highest wicket-taker for Pakistan in T20Is, with an impressive record of 101 wickets in 98 matches. Additionally, he has achieved two five-wicket hauls in the format and amassed 911 runs in T20Is.
Currently active in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) with Multan Sultans, the 32-year-old faced a wicketless outing in their recent victory over Rawalpindiz in Karachi.
