Big controversy! Mohammad Nawaz under PCB probe after positive drug test during T20 World Cup

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has launched an investigation into Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz after he returned a positive test for recreational drug use. The board is reviewing his career, national team status, and eligibility for global franchise leagues as it proceeds with disciplinary checks.

Nawaz is currently playing for Multan Sultans in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL). The 32-year-old recently bowled three wicketless overs in a six-wicket win against Rawalpindiz in Karachi on Tuesday, April 21. He will continue to feature in the ongoing tournament while the investigation is underway.

PCB Launches Investigation Into Mohammad Nawaz After Positive Drug Test

According to a report by ESPNcricinfo, the positive result came from mandatory medical testing conducted during the T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka. The Pakistan Cricket Board received official communication from the ICC and an ongoing investigation into Mohammad Nawaz.

"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.

Mohammad Nawaz Struggled in ICC T20 World Cup 2026

The tournament exposed Pakistan’s struggles in both departments, and Nawaz could not make a major impact. Despite being an experienced all-rounder, he failed to contribute consistently with either bat or ball. His limited returns added pressure on the team during key matches in the Super Eight phase.

Mohammad Nawaz featured in all seven matches for Pakistan during the 2026 T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka. The team failed to progress beyond the Super Eight stage. Nawaz, who has 98 T20I appearances, scored only 15 runs and picked up seven wickets in a campaign that ended in disappointment.

Nawaz had agreed to join Surrey for the T20 Blast. The competition is scheduled to run from May 26 to July 18 during the English domestic season. The deal was expected to boost his franchise career with a valuable overseas opportunity.

Surrey Cancel Deal After Positive Test as PCB Probe Continues

However, the situation changed quickly after the positive drug test result surfaced. ESPNcricinfo reported that Surrey decided to cancel the agreement before making any official announcement. The development marked a major setback for Nawaz, who was preparing for an important stint in county cricket.

The Pakistan Cricket Board had earlier granted Nawaz a No-Objection Certificate around two weeks before the controversy emerged. This approval allowed him to participate in overseas leagues. Surrey had planned to finalize the signing, but the investigation forced them to step back immediately.

Both Surrey and the International Cricket Council have not issued detailed public statements on the matter. The English club declined to comment on the canceled deal, while the ICC has remained silent on the testing process and possible disciplinary action as the investigation continues.