Pakistan All-Rounder Mohammad Nawaz Under PCB Investigation Following Positive Recreational Drug Test
Pakistan international all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz is currently under investigation by the Pakistan Cricket Board after reportedly testing positive for recreational drug use during the recent T20 World Cup. The development has led to the cancellation of his contract with Surrey for the upcoming T20 Blast.
Pakistan international all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz is currently facing an investigation by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) after a positive test for recreational drug use. The revelation stems from mandatory medical testing conducted during the T20 World Cup earlier this year in Sri Lanka. This serious development has already had immediate repercussions, with his anticipated deal to play for Surrey in England's T20 Blast now reportedly cancelled. ICC Set To Launch Major Probe Into Cricket Canada Over CAN vs NZ T20 World Cup 2026 Fixing Claims: Report.
Investigation Underway
As reported by ESPNCricinfo, the PCB has confirmed that it was formally notified by the International Cricket Council (ICC) regarding the positive test. A spokesperson for the PCB stated on Wednesday that the board has initiated its 'due process' and that the findings of this process would be communicated to the ICC today. While the ICC has declined to comment on the matter, the PCB's swift action underscores the gravity of the situation.
Nawaz, aged 32, has been a prominent figure in Pakistan's white-ball cricket, having represented his country in 6 Tests, 44 One Day Internationals, and 98 Twenty20 Internationals. He is also the fourth-highest wicket-taker for Pakistan in T20Is, with 101 wickets in 98 matches.
Impact on International and Franchise Commitments
The positive test has directly impacted Nawaz's professional commitments beyond national duties. He had secured a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the PCB two weeks prior and was expected to join Surrey County Cricket Club for the entire duration of the T20 Blast, scheduled from May 26 to July 18.
However, following the drug test results, the agreement has reportedly been terminated, and Nawaz will no longer feature for the English county side this summer. Surrey has also refrained from making any official statement regarding the matter. Watch 'Corruption Inside Cricket Canada' Documentary As Fixing Allegations Mar CAN vs NZ T20 World Cup 2026 Match.
Ongoing PSL Participation
Despite the ongoing investigation, Nawaz continues to participate in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026, representing the Multan Sultans. He featured in their recent six-wicket victory over Rawalpindiz in Karachi on Tuesday, bowling three wicketless overs.
During the T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka, where the positive test originated, Nawaz played in all seven of Pakistan's matches. He scored 15 runs and took seven wickets as Pakistan exited the tournament at the Super Eight stage. The outcome of the PCB's investigation will be crucial in determining the future trajectory of Nawaz's international and domestic cricketing career.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 22, 2026 04:03 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).