Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan has reportedly been refused permission by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to address the media about the National Cyber Crimes Investigation Agency (NCCIA) investigation into allegations linked to online betting, gambling and financial dealings.
How many times did Mohammad Rizwan approach the board?
According to a reliable source, Rizwan contacted the PCB twice last week seeking approval to hold a press conference. However, the board turned down his request on both occasions.
What led to Mohammad Rizwan being sent home from England?
Mohammad Rizwan was sent home midway through Pakistan’s England tour alongside senior players Imam-ul-Haq and Salman Ali Agha. Since then, he has attracted considerable attention after being questioned by the NCCIA over suspected links to online betting and gambling, as well as his financial transactions. The agency seized Rizwan and Imam’s mobile phones during the second Test at Lord’s, and both devices are currently undergoing forensic examination.
What was Mohammad Rizwan’s goal for the press conference?
The PCB has not yet issued a detailed clarification regarding the investigation. However, the source claimed that Rizwan wanted to speak publicly to address the speculation surrounding the case and present his version of events.
What did the source reveal about Mohammad Rizwan’s intentions?
‘Rizwan sought the PCB’s approval to meet the media because he wanted to explain the situation and clear up the confusion and speculation surrounding the issue,’ the source said. Under the PCB’s existing regulations, centrally contracted players must obtain board approval before speaking publicly or issuing statements to the media.
What separate allegations is Imam-ul-Haq facing?
While Rizwan has remained at the centre of the controversy, Imam-ul-Haq has largely stayed away from the spotlight. Imam is also under investigation over allegations that he exaggerated an injury, preventing him from batting in either innings of the Lord’s Test. The left-handed batter was questioned by the NCCIA alongside Rizwan in Lahore on September 9 but has otherwise maintained a low public profile.