LAHORE, September 22, 2026: Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan was prevented from playing in the opening round of the President’s Trophy amid an ongoing inquiry involving the cricketer, according to sources cited by Geo News.
The latest reports indicate that Rizwan’s absence was linked to the ongoing inquiry rather than solely to a fitness issue. Earlier reports had said Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq were set to miss the President’s Trophy after failing to submit mandatory fitness-test reports to their respective departmental teams.
Rizwan Had Joined SNGPL
According to sources cited in the latest report, Rizwan had joined his departmental team, Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL), in Islamabad.
With regular captain Shan Masood unavailable, Rizwan was reportedly asked by the department to lead the side. He also participated in the team’s practice session and meeting.
The development changed after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) reportedly contacted SNGPL management and informed them that an inquiry involving Rizwan was underway.
The department was subsequently asked to send the cricketer back, according to the sources.
PCB Reportedly Denies NCA Practice Permission
The sources said SNGPL management was prepared to conduct Rizwan’s fitness test after he joined the team.
After returning to Lahore, Rizwan reportedly contacted the PCB seeking permission to practise at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). According to the latest report, permission was not granted.
Rizwan is currently reported to be training in his hometown of Peshawar.
Inquiry Remains Ongoing
Rizwan has been questioned by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) as part of an ongoing inquiry involving alleged dressing-room information leaks, financial transactions and online betting-related matters. Investigators have also conducted forensic examination of his mobile phone, according to reports.
Rizwan has challenged aspects of the NCCIA proceedings and has sought clarification about the basis of the inquiry. The Lahore High Court dismissed his petition challenging the notices on September 17.
The PCB has also launched an internal disciplinary inquiry. However, no final finding of wrongdoing against Rizwan has been officially announced, and the investigation remains ongoing.