Mohammad Nawaz Faces Investigation After Positive Drug Test During T20 World Cup

Mohammad Nawaz Under Investigation

Mohammad Nawaz is currently in the spotlight following a positive test for recreational drugs during the 2026 T20 World Cup. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has initiated an official inquiry into the matter. This positive result was revealed through routine testing conducted during the tournament earlier this year, as reported by ESPNcricinfo. The 32-year-old all-rounder participated in all seven matches for Pakistan in Sri Lanka, where the team was eliminated in the Super Eight stage. During the tournament, he managed to score 15 runs and took seven wickets, which was considered underwhelming.

PCB Launches Investigation

Nawaz played for the Multan Sultans in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) on Tuesday, although his performance has not been up to par in the competition. Recreational drugs are substances that induce pleasure, relaxation, or altered perceptions without medical oversight, including alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, cocaine, and heroin. A spokesperson from the PCB stated, "The International Cricket Council has been notified about this situation, and the PCB has commenced the necessary procedures. The findings will be shared with the ICC today," while speaking to ESPNcricinfo.

Nawaz's T20 Blast Contract Affected

With 98 T20I appearances for Pakistan, Nawaz is at a critical juncture in his career. Known for his left-arm spin and lower-order batting, he has been a regular in the national white-ball squad. However, this incident has already impacted his franchise commitments. After receiving a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the PCB, he was set to join Surrey County Cricket Club for the upcoming T20 Blast. Unfortunately, this arrangement has reportedly fallen through, and he will not be participating this summer. Despite the ongoing investigation, Nawaz continues to play for the Multan Sultans in the PSL, where he recently bowled three wicketless overs in a six-wicket win against Rawalpindi in Karachi. The outcome of the investigation could significantly affect his international cricket career, with potential suspension or further disciplinary actions looming if he is found guilty of violating anti-doping regulations.