Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq Under PCB Inquiry Amid ‘Fixing’ Reports During England Tour
Pakistan cricket is embroiled in a fresh controversy as 'fixing' concerns emerge, with veteran players Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq reportedly under PCB scrutiny. An internal disciplinary inquiry is underway, following reports of mobile phone data being collected from players after Pakistan's 194-run defeat to England in the 2nd Test at Lord's.
A dark cloud of 'fixing' concerns has descended upon the Pakistan cricket team, currently touring England for a three-match Test series. Veteran players Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq are at the centre of an unfolding internal disciplinary inquiry by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which has reportedly confiscated mobile phones from players and transferred data from their devices. PCB Set To Remove Pakistan Team Chief Selector Aaqib Javed Amid Turmoil: Report.
The dramatic turn of events comes after Pakistan suffered a heavy 194-run defeat in the second Test against England at Lord's. The loss left Pakistan trailing 2-0 in the series, prompting widespread criticism and leading to significant, immediate changes within the touring squad and coaching staff.
Sweeping Changes and Official Response
In the wake of the Lord's defeat, the PCB made a drastic overhaul, sending home seven players from the Test squad. These include Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Ali Usman, Khurram Shahzad, Aamir Jamal, and Muhammad Awais Zafar. Furthermore, head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul were also released from their duties. Mike Hesson has been appointed as the red-ball head coach, with Ashley Noffke taking over as bowling coach for the final Test.
Amid swirling media reports, Amir Mir, PCB's Director Media and Digital Communications, issued a statement confirming an “internal disciplinary inquiry following media reports concerning discipline and conduct.” Mir stated that the PCB is handling the matter in accordance with its standard procedures, ensuring that all concerned individuals receive due consideration.
Phone Data Under Scrutiny
According to Pakistani media outlets, including Geo News and 365 News, the team's security officer took possession of Imam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Rizwan's mobile phones for several hours after the Lord's Test. Data from these devices was reportedly transferred before the phones were returned to the players. While the PCB has not publicly disclosed the identities of the players whose phones were confiscated or the precise nature of the investigation, the move has fuelled speculation regarding potential 'fixing' concerns.
Reports indicate the investigation is examining the players' activities and communications during their stay in London. However, it is crucial to note that there is currently no confirmed evidence of match-fixing or any other wrongdoing against either player. The PCB's official stance refers to reviewing reports concerning "discipline and conduct" rather than specifically naming anti-corruption violations. Mohsin Naqvi Trolled by Iceland Cricket With ‘Iceberg’ Challenge Amid PCB Turmoil.
The Road Ahead: Third Test at Edgbaston
Seven new players have been drafted into the squad for the third and final Test, including capped batters Saim Ayub and Abdullah Fazal, alongside uncapped players Razaullah, Mohammad Imran, Arafat Minhas, wicketkeeper Saad Baig, and Mohammad Imran Junior. The third Test is scheduled to commence at Edgbaston on September 9. Pakistan faces an uphill battle, already 2-0 down in the series, with this ongoing controversy adding another layer of challenge to their campaign.
The cricket world now keenly awaits further updates from the PCB as the disciplinary inquiry progresses and the team prepares for the series finale under intense scrutiny.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 07, 2026 03:59 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
