Mohammad Rizwan Faces Setback as Lahore High Court Dismisses Petition Against Cyber Crime Agency Summons

Pakistan's cricket fraternity is reeling from yet another controversy as star wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan saw his legal challenge against the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) dismissed by the Lahore High Court (LHC) earlier today, September 17, 2026. The court, led by Chief Justice Aalia Neelum, directed Rizwan to comply with the NCCIA's summons and present his response directly to the agency. Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-Ul-Haq Summoned by Pakistan's National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency: Report.

Rizwan had moved the LHC with a writ petition on Monday, September 14, questioning the NCCIA's jurisdiction and the absence of specific allegations against him following a summons issued in the aftermath of Pakistan's 3-0 Test series whitewash in England. The NCCIA investigation is believed to stem from alleged "dressing-room leaks" and has also delved into players' financial dealings and transactions.

The Cyber Crime Probe and Rizwan's Stance

The controversy intensified after Rizwan, alongside fellow batter Imam-ul-Haq, was summoned to the NCCIA's Lahore office last Thursday, September 10. Both players were reportedly handed multi-page questionnaires seeking details about their travel and financial histories, as well as personal and professional lives. While Imam-ul-Haq is understood to have submitted his responses through an intermediary before the September 15 deadline, Rizwan chose to challenge the process legally.

Rizwan's lawyer, Qazi Umair Ali, argued before the LHC that the allegations were baseless and that his client was questioned without being formally served a notice after the Lord's Test. Ali also highlighted that Rizwan's mobile phone, taken into custody by the agency, had not been returned, reflecting what he termed as bad faith. Furthermore, the lawyer contended that the International Cricket Council's (ICC) Anti-Corruption Unit would be the appropriate body for any corruption-related allegations against cricketers, noting that no such matter had been referred to the ICC.

Lahore High Court's Ruling

During Thursday's hearing, Chief Justice Aalia Neelum expressed displeasure at Rizwan's legal team for not presenting the complete case file. Questioning the need for court intervention after Rizwan had already complied with the initial summons on September 10, Justice Neelum stated, "You were called on September 10 and you complied with it. What brings you to court now?". She then firmly directed Rizwan's lawyer to engage directly with the NCCIA and provide a formal response to their notices. Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq Under PCB Inquiry Amid ‘Fixing’ Reports During England Tour.

Broader Implications for Pakistan Cricket

This NCCIA inquiry runs parallel to a separate internal disciplinary investigation initiated by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) concerning "discipline and conduct" following media reports. It remains unclear if the two investigations are linked. Rizwan and Imam were among seven players sent home prematurely from the England tour after Pakistan's heavy 194-run defeat in the second Test at Lord's, a series they ultimately lost 0-3. The board had also previously sought explanations from a selection committee member regarding the selection of Rizwan and Imam for the tours.

The LHC's decision places the onus back on Mohammad Rizwan to cooperate directly with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency. This ongoing saga adds another layer of complexity to the challenges currently facing Pakistan cricket, demanding clarity and resolution as the team navigates a tumultuous period both on and off the field.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 17, 2026 02:35 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).