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Pakistan cricket team [Source: AFP]
In a major setback, Pakistan cricketer Mohammad Nawaz has come under scrutiny after testing positive for recreational drug use during the T20 World Cup earlier this year.
According to reports, the sample was collected during routine checks conducted throughout the tournament.
It is important to note that Nawaz has been an experienced figure in Pakistan’s setup across all formats. He has played 6 Tests, 44 ODIs, and 98 T20Is, while also registering a combined total of 166 wickets and 1593 runs in international cricket. Therefore, this development has come as a significant blow given his established presence in the team.
Mohammad Nawaz's performance in T20 World Cup
During the T20 competition held in Sri Lanka, Mohammad Nawaz played all seven matches for Pakistan. Furthermore, the team’s journey ended at the Super Eight stage, which marked a disappointing campaign overall.
In terms of performance, Nawaz scored 15 runs across the tournament. At the same time, he contributed with the ball by picking up seven wickets.
PCB launches investigation against Mohammad Nawaz
Following the positive test result, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has initiated a formal investigation. The matter was referred to the board by the International Cricket Council (ICC), which oversees global cricket regulations. Subsequently, the PCB began its disciplinary process to assess the situation carefully.
A PCB spokesperson confirmed the development and stated that the due process is already underway. Meanwhile, the ICC has refrained from making any public statement, maintaining silence on the issue for now.
"The International Cricket Council (ICC) has informed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) about this matter, and PCB has begun the due process. The results of this process will be communicated to the ICC today," a PCB spokesperson told ESPNcricinfo on Wednesday.
Also Read: Babar Azam Among 3 Pakistan Players To Face The Axe For T20 World Cup Humiliation
Surrey cancels contract with Mohammad Nawaz
As the investigation progresses, Nawaz has already faced immediate consequences. Notably, his planned move to Surrey for England’s T20 Blast has been cancelled.
Earlier, the 32-year-old all-rounder had agreed to join the county side for the full tournament, which runs from May 26 to July 18. Moreover, the PCB had granted him a No-Objection Certificate (NOC), allowing him to participate, along with Mohammad Abbas, Sufiyan Muqeem and Usama Mir- to participate in the English domestic season.
However, following the emergence of this controversy, the agreement has been terminated. Therefore, Nawaz will not be part of Surrey’s squad this season. In the same vein, Surrey has also chosen not to comment publicly on the matter.
Possible sanctions for Mohammad Nawaz
At this stage, the outcome of the investigation remains uncertain, with possibilities ranging from a formal reprimand to a suspension of up to six months. Clarifying the rules, Dr. Waqar Ahmad, founder chairman of the Anti-Doping Organisation of Pakistan, explained that the use of recreational substances outside competition does not result in any penalty.
Speaking to The News, Dr Waqar Ahmad, said, “There is no punishment for the use of recreational substances outside competition,” he explained. “However, if such substances are detected during competition, the athlete may face consequences ranging from a simple reprimand to a suspension of up to six months.”
Mohammad Nawaz's performance in PSL 2026
At present, Mohammad Nawaz continues to play in the Pakistan Super League (PSL 2026), representing Multan Sultans.
Despite the off-field issues, he remains active in the tournament. So far, he has scored 36 runs in four innings, maintaining a strike rate of 105.88. Additionally, he has taken six wickets in seven innings, contributing steadily with the ball.
Looking ahead, Mohammad Nawaz is set to feature in the upcoming match against Hyderabad Kingsmen on Wednesday, April 22. Consequently, his performance will be closely watched in light of the ongoing investigation and the uncertainty surrounding his career.
Also Read: ICC Punishes Bangladesh For Non-Compliance
