The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has finalized the forensic examination of cricketer Imam-ul-Haq’s mobile phone. Meanwhile, Mohammad Rizwan has yet to comply with the investigation, causing delays in the probe.
The NCCIA reportedly reached out to Rizwan multiple times to conduct a forensic analysis of his phone. However, the former Pakistan captain has not adhered to the Lahore High Court’s directive to cooperate, hindering the progress of the inquiry.
Previously, the Lahore High Court issued a written judgment on Rizwan’s petition challenging the NCCIA investigation. The court instructed him to cooperate fully while directing the agency to conduct the inquiry strictly within legal boundaries, ensuring he is not harassed or subjected to unnecessary inconvenience.
In light of the court’s instructions, the NCCIA is proceeding cautiously and plans to contact Rizwan again on September 28. Should he continue to resist cooperation, the agency intends to issue a formal written notice.
The investigation centers on alleged disciplinary violations and off-field behavior involving players during Pakistan’s Test series in England. The NCCIA has emphasized that no accusations will be made until the investigation is complete, underscoring that the goal is to remind national players of their responsibilities rather than to implicate anyone prematurely.
The agency expects to finish the detailed analysis of Imam’s phone shortly and hopes Rizwan will cooperate similarly. To facilitate the process, the NCCIA has offered to send its team to Rizwan if he is unable to appear at their office in person.
Regarding his stance, Rizwan informed the Lahore High Court that he has not been provided with specific details about the alleged online betting charges. He asserted that the International Cricket Council’s Anti-Corruption Unit is the appropriate authority for investigating corruption allegations against cricketers.
Rizwan also noted that no such allegations have been reported to the ICC Anti-Corruption Unit and stated he could only participate in the inquiry once he receives detailed information about any accusations against him. He requested that any specific charges be disclosed so he can respond effectively.
The inquiry was initiated following Pakistan’s poor performances in the first two Tests against England, after which both Rizwan and Imam were dropped from domestic tournaments. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) launched an internal investigation into player discipline and conduct, which was later handed over to the NCCIA.
On September 10, both Rizwan and Imam appeared at the NCCIA’s Lahore office. They requested additional time to submit comprehensive responses, while their mobile phones were seized for forensic examination.
The PCB has confirmed that investigations into dressing-room leaks and related issues are ongoing, with no reports yet filed against any player. The board has urged the public to avoid speculation and unverified claims, emphasizing that final conclusions will be based solely on evidence gathered during the inquiry.
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