ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly expanded its investigation into batter Imam-ul-Haq and wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan following Pakistan’s 194-run defeat to England at Lord’s, with reports suggesting that the board is examining the players’ activities and contacts during their stay in London.
In this regard, as per the reports, the PCB has obtained data from the mobile phones of both cricketers as part of the inquiry.
The investigation has intensified around Imam’s injury during the Lord’s Test.
The batter suffered a low-grade calf strain while fielding on the opening day and subsequently did not bat in Pakistan’s first innings.
Pakistan were dismissed for 110 after England posted 290. Imam remained unavailable as Pakistan were bowled out for 194 while chasing a target of 389, handing England a 194-run victory.
The latest development has also reportedly revived an earlier controversy involving Imam during Pakistan’s tour of New Zealand in March 2025.
The PCB inquiry committee had previously held Imam responsible for allegedly fabricating, exaggerating or misrepresenting symptoms after he was struck on the right big toe during an indoor training session on March 28, 2025.
Rizwan Also Under PCB Scrutiny
Meanwhile, Mohammad Rizwan has come under scrutiny over alleged disciplinary concerns. Sources cited in reports said the wicketkeeper-batter could be questioned by the PCB in the coming days.
The board is also reportedly reviewing the activities and contacts of both players while they were in London. Their mobile phones were allegedly taken by the team’s security officer after the players returned to the hotel following the Lord’s defeat, with the devices reportedly returned several hours later after data had been transferred.
PCB Yet to Confirm Reports
The PCB had already released Imam and Rizwan, along with several other players, as part of significant changes to Pakistan’s Test squad ahead of the third and final Test against England.
Reports suggest that concrete evidence could lead to fines, suspensions or other disciplinary measures. However, the PCB has not publicly confirmed the reported details.
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When contacted, a PCB spokesperson declined to confirm reports concerning the mobile phone data and the ongoing investigation.
