Mohammad Nawaz is facing major uncertainty after a recreational drug test returned a positive result during the 2026 T20 World Cup, prompting an official investigation by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). The development has already started to ripple into his playing plans, with franchise arrangements now in question.
Quick facts
- Mohammad Nawaz tested positive for recreational drug use during the 2026 T20 World Cup.
- The PCB says it has been informed by the ICC and has started its internal due process.
- Nawaz, 32, played seven matches for Pakistan in Sri Lanka at the Super Eight stage.
- In that tournament stretch, he scored 15 runs and took seven wickets.
- He has been a regular in Pakistan’s white-ball setup as a left-arm spinner and lower-order batter.
- His Surrey County Cricket Club T20 Blast move reportedly collapsed after a PCB NOC was issued.
- He has continued playing PSL for Multan Sultans, including a spell of three wicketless overs versus Rawalpindi.
The PCB has confirmed that it was formally notified of the case by the International Cricket Council (ICC) and has initiated procedures within its own framework. Routine testing during the world cup earlier this year produced the positive outcome, setting the stage for an official review.
World Cup stint and tournament record
Nawaz, aged 32, appeared in every one of Pakistan’s seven matches in Sri Lanka. Pakistan’s campaign ended in the Super Eight stage, and his personal numbers were modest but impactful—he contributed with the bat for 15 runs while also claiming seven wickets during the run of games.
With the investigation now underway, the next step is determining what consequences follow the PCB’s internal process. The board has indicated that the results of its review will be communicated to the ICC on the day the statement was made public.
PCB begins due process
A PCB spokesperson said the ICC has informed the PCB about the matter and that the board has begun the due process. The spokesperson added that the outcome of those procedures will be shared with the ICC that day, aligning with the process expected under cricket’s anti-doping framework.
For Nawaz, the timing is difficult given the stage of his career. He has represented Pakistan in 98 T20 internationals and has been a consistent option in the team’s shorter format, particularly valued for his left-arm spin and his ability to contribute in the lower order.
The controversy is already affecting his commitments beyond international cricket. Nawaz had been due to join Surrey County Cricket Club for the upcoming T20 Blast after receiving a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the PCB, but the arrangement has reportedly fallen through, meaning he will not take part for Surrey this summer.
PSL continues despite investigation
Even with the investigation ongoing, Nawaz has continued to feature in the Pakistan Super League. He is representing Multan Sultans and most recently bowled three wicketless overs in their six-wicket win over Rawalpindi in Karachi.
How the case is resolved could define his next chapter in international cricket. If he is found to have breached anti-doping regulations, he may face a suspension and additional disciplinary measures, with the PCB’s findings set to play a key role in determining the timeline and severity.
