The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has started investigating Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz after he tested positive for recreational drug use. The board is reviewing his career, national team status and eligibility for global franchise leagues as it moves forward with the disciplinary investigation.
Nawaz is currently playing for Multan Sultans in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL). The 32-year-old most recently bowled three wicketless overs in a six-wicket win against Rawalpindi in Karachi on Tuesday, April 21. He will continue playing in the current tournament while the investigation continues.
PCB begins investigation into Mohammad Nawaz after positive drug test
According to a report in ESPNcricinfo, the positive result comes from the mandatory medical test conducted during the T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka. Pakistan Cricket Board received official communication from ICC and investigation into Mohammad Nawaz is underway.
“The International Cricket Council (ICC) has informed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) about this matter and the PCB has initiated the appropriate process. The outcome of this process will be reported to the ICC today.” A PCB spokesperson told ESPNcricinfo on Wednesday.
Mohammad Nawaz had to struggle in ICC T20 World Cup 2026
The tournament exposed Pakistan’s struggles in both departments and Nawaz could not make a major impact. Despite being an experienced all-rounder, he failed to contribute consistently with either bat or ball. His limited returns increased the pressure on the team during key matches of the Super Eight stage.
Mohammad Nawaz appeared in all seven matches for Pakistan during the 2026 T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka. The team failed to advance beyond the Super Eight stage. Nawaz, who has 98 T20I matches under his belt, scored only 15 runs and took seven wickets in a campaign that ended in disappointment.
Nawaz had agreed to join Surrey for the T20 Blast. The competition is scheduled to run from 26 May to 18 July during the English domestic season. The deal was expected to boost his franchise career with a valuable overseas opportunity.
Surrey cancel deal after positive test as PCB investigation continues
However, the situation changed rapidly after the positive drug test results were revealed. ESPNcricinfo reported that Surrey decided to cancel the deal before making any official announcement. This development was a major blow to Nawaz, who was preparing for an important stint in county cricket.
About two weeks before the controversy came to light, the Pakistan Cricket Board had given No Objection Certificate to Nawaz. This approval allowed them to participate in foreign leagues. Surrey had planned to finalize the signing, but the investigation forced them to immediately back out.
Both Surrey and the International Cricket Council have not issued detailed public statements on the matter. The English club declined to comment on the canceled deal, while the ICC has remained silent on the testing process and possible disciplinary action as the investigation continues.
