Rizwan and Imam Face Cyber Crime Probe Amid PCB Chaos

Pakistan cricket has been pushed into another uneasy spotlight after reports emerged that Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq were questioned by officials from the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency in Lahore. The development has added another layer of intrigue to a turbulent period for the national team, with off-field concerns now sitting alongside on-field disappointment.

Rizwan and Imam reportedly questioned for two hours

According to media reports published on September 11, both players appeared at the NCCIA headquarters in Johar Town and underwent questioning that lasted for around two hours. The session reportedly ended without a final conclusion, and both cricketers are expected to be called again after asking for more time to respond.

The news quickly spread across Pakistan cricket circles because it involved two senior players who had already been dropped midway through the ongoing three-match Test series against England. That decision had already triggered speculation, and the inquiry has now intensified the conversation around the team’s internal environment.

What triggered the latest scrutiny?

The Pakistan Cricket Board had earlier confirmed that an internal disciplinary inquiry had been launched following media reports about issues related to “discipline and conduct.” While the board has not offered a detailed public explanation, the sequence of events has drawn attention far beyond the dressing room.

Seven cricketers were removed after the Test at Lord’s, including Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Agha, Ali Usman, Aamer Jamal, Awais Zafar and Khurram Shahzad. The reshuffle also extended to team management, with head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and assistant coach Umar Gul among those affected in the wider shake-up.

That move came after Pakistan suffered heavy defeats against England in Leeds and London, and at first it was widely viewed as a response to poor results. But later reports suggesting internal issues, including possible disciplinary matters, shifted the story in a much more serious direction.

Speculation grows around Pakistan cricket

The reported seizure of some players’ devices, including mobile phones, further heightened curiosity. Those devices could become relevant to the investigation process, although the PCB has not publicly outlined the exact scope of its inquiry. For now, the matter remains clouded by speculation rather than confirmed detail.

A cricket analyst quoted in separate reporting questioned the situation and described it as “very fishy,” reflecting the broader skepticism building around the case. That reaction underlines how unusual the episode has become, especially with prominent players now linked to an investigative process rather than a cricketing review alone.

“The timing, the removals, and the investigation together have made this feel far bigger than a simple form dip,” one analyst noted in reaction to the reports.

The PCB, however, has yet to issue a full official statement addressing the more serious claims circulating on social media. Until that happens, the matter is likely to remain one of the most talked-about off-field stories in Pakistan cricket.

England pressure continues to mount

While the controversy unfolds, Pakistan’s cricketing situation in England remains fragile. England are strongly positioned for a series whitewash, although Pakistan have shown some resistance in the second innings of the ongoing Test in Birmingham.

The broader squad reshuffle has also brought fresh faces into the frame. Saim Ayub and Abdullah Fazal were brought in as capped replacements, while five uncapped players, including Arafat Minhas, Mohammad Imran Jnr, Saad Baig, Mohammad Imran Randhawa and Razaullah, were added to the mix.

Young Razaullah catches the eye

Among the newcomers, 21-year-old fast bowler Razaullah has stood out most because of his raw pace. Reports suggest he can operate at around 145 kmph, a promising sign for Pakistan as they look for energy and depth during a difficult tour.

For now, though, the central story remains the growing uncertainty around Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq. What began as a selection reshuffle has now evolved into a disciplinary and investigative saga that could have lasting consequences for Pakistan cricket.