Controversial Claims of Drug Smuggling by Former Pakistani Cricketers

Allegations of Drug Trafficking

RVS Mani, a former Under Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs, has made shocking allegations regarding former Pakistani cricketers Shoaib Akhtar and Mohammad Asif. He claims that during their visits to India for cricket series, they were involved in smuggling drugs.

In 2006, both players faced doping charges, resulting in a suspension from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) just before the Champions Trophy. They tested positive for nandrolone, a banned anabolic steroid, leading to Akhtar receiving a two-year ban and Asif being banned for one year.

However, a review tribunal later overturned their bans, stating that the players were unaware of consuming a prohibited substance. Despite this, their careers were marred by scrutiny over their off-field behavior.

‘They Are Carrying Drugs’

RVS Mani, who worked in the Ministry from 2006 to 2010, alleged that the Pakistan High Commissioner sent Akhtar and Asif back after they confessed to carrying drugs. This admission reportedly came after security measures were tightened.

Mani stated, "We have reported a case involving Shoaib Akhtar and Mohammad Asif, who were sent back by the Pakistani High Commissioner after admitting they were carrying drugs. This has been a recurring issue whenever Pakistani teams visited India."

He further claimed, "It is an official policy of Pakistan to push drugs into India. These high-profile individuals are part of a larger issue involving the entire team."

Historical Context of Bilateral Series

Before the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) suspended bilateral series indefinitely, Pakistani players frequently traveled to India for matches and tournaments. These visits were often accompanied by intense security scrutiny, highlighting the challenges of sporting diplomacy amid ongoing security concerns.

The Woolmer Connection

The unexpected death of Bob Woolmer, Pakistan's head coach during the 2007 ODI World Cup, raised many eyebrows. Woolmer was found unconscious in his hotel room shortly after Pakistan's shocking exit from the tournament.

Initially treated as a homicide, the circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear. RVS Mani suggested that Woolmer's opposition to drug-related activities within the team may have contributed to his untimely demise.

Mani remarked, "Bob Woolmer, who resisted drug trafficking by the Pakistani players, was killed under suspicious circumstances. It's crucial to connect the dots, as drug trafficking has been linked to funding terror attacks in India."

Deteriorating Relations

The cricketing ties between India and Pakistan have further deteriorated following a series of violent incidents, including the Mumbai attacks in November 2008 and the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025, which have strained any potential for reviving cricketing relations.