NCCIA Investigates Alleged Leaks Involving Pakistani Cricketers

NCCIA Investigates Alleged Leaks

Prominent Pakistani cricketers Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq are currently awaiting the results of an investigation by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA). This inquiry is being conducted as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) deliberates on the next steps following allegations of leaks from the dressing room, as reported by a news source.

The NCCIA has begun a forensic analysis of the mobile devices belonging to Rizwan and Imam, which were submitted by the PCB as part of the ongoing investigation. Sources indicate that investigators are scrutinizing messages, contacts, and other digital data from these phones, while also looking into social media claims regarding the alleged leaks from the Pakistan dressing room.

Initial assessments of the mobile devices reportedly did not uncover any significant evidence, but further forensic evaluations are ongoing at the NCCIA's Islamabad headquarters.

Additionally, the inquiry is delving into the financial transactions of both players, including their bank accounts and activities before and after Pakistan's Test series against England. Investigators aim to trace any suspicious financial movements if they arise.

Players Interrogated During Investigation

Earlier this month, Rizwan and Imam attended a questioning session at the NCCIA in Lahore regarding the alleged leaks.

Once the forensic analysis is finalized, the NCCIA is expected to present its findings to PCB officials, who will then determine the future of the two players.

Rizwan has also submitted a formal request to the NCCIA for clarification on the reasons behind his summons and the status of his mobile phone, which has yet to be returned. The PCB has refrained from commenting on the ongoing investigation, and no conclusive findings against either player have been disclosed.

PCB Responds After Series Defeat

These developments follow Pakistan's disappointing performance in their Test series against England, where they faced a significant defeat by an innings and 103 runs in the first Test, followed by a 194-run loss in the second match at Lord's.

In response to the losses, the PCB took swift action, releasing seven players, including Rizwan, Imam, Salman Ali Agha, Ali Usman, Aamir Jamal, Owais Zafar, and Khurram Shahzad. The head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul were also let go.

Previously, the PCB had requested a written explanation from a member of the selection committee regarding the inclusion of Rizwan and Imam in the Test squads for the tours of the West Indies and England. A formal notice was issued on August 31, referencing a selection meeting that took place on June 2.

Rizwan, aged 34, has played 47 Tests, 103 ODIs, and 106 T20Is for Pakistan. He reportedly reached out to the PCB prior to his appearance at the NCCIA and traveled from London to Islamabad after being excluded from the squad.