The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) finds its high-profile inquiry into alleged online betting and sensitive dressing room information leaks significantly hampered by the reported non-cooperation of star Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan.
Report within the agency, indicate that Rizwan has repeatedly failed to respond positively to requests for his assistance, specifically regarding the forensic examination of his mobile phone.
This development contrasts sharply with the reported full cooperation of opening batter Imam-ul-Haq, who is also under investigation following the seizure of both players’ mobile devices after Pakistan’s recent Test series against England.
Probe’s Genesis and Allegations
The NCCIA’s investigation was initiated following a complaint lodged by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and concerns suspected online betting and gambling-related activity, alongside alleged leaks of information from the Pakistan dressing room during the Test series against England. Both Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq were among seven players released from Pakistan’s Test squad after the team’s dismal performance in the first two Tests against England, including a defeat at Lord’s.
Mobile phones belonging to Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq were confiscated by security personnel upon their return from the England tour and subsequently handed over to the NCCIA for forensic analysis.
Mohammad Rizwan’s Stance and Legal Recourse
According to GeoNews, investigators have made multiple attempts to contact Rizwan to no avail, with the player reportedly either being unreachable or stating he would consult his lawyer before responding. The agency stressed the necessity of Rizwan’s presence during the forensic examination of his phone to prevent any potential data loss.
Rizwan’s camp, however, maintains that he has yet to receive a fresh, formal notice from the NCCIA. They claim his initial notice was received via WhatsApp, and questions he posed to the agency, inquiring about the specific allegations and reasons for the summons, have remained unanswered.
The cricketer had previously moved the Lahore High Court to challenge the NCCIA notices, questioning the agency’s jurisdiction. However, the High Court dismissed his petition on September 17, 2026, directing Rizwan to cooperate with the investigation and respond to the agency’s questions.
Imam-ul-Haq’s Cooperation and PCB’s Silence
In stark contrast to Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq is reportedly fully cooperating with the NCCIA probe. Sources indicate that the forensic deep analysis of Imam’s mobile phone has already commenced in his presence and is expected to conclude shortly.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Cricket Board has maintained a public silence on the specifics of the investigation, stating they would not comment while the inquiry is ongoing. The PCB has also reportedly denied Rizwan permission to speak publicly about the investigation, citing contractual obligations that require central players to seek clearance for public statements.
Next Steps for the NCCIA
The NCCIA is set to make another attempt to contact Mohammad Rizwan today, Monday, September 28, 2026, to seek his cooperation. Should he continue to withhold his assistance, the agency is prepared to issue a formal legal notice, potentially leading to further action in accordance with the law to compel his appearance and cooperation. No final findings have been announced against either player, and the NCCIA clarifies that its actions are independent of the International Cricket Council (ICC).
The cricketing world now watches closely as this sensitive investigation unfolds, with the NCCIA pressing for full cooperation to bring the matter to a logical conclusion. The outcome could have significant implications for the players involved and Pakistan cricket as a whole.