Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan has been cleared to return to domestic cricket despite an ongoing investigation into allegations of online betting and the leaking of dressing-room information during Pakistan’s tour of England.
The 34-year-old is expected to captain Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) in the final round of the first-class President’s Trophy after receiving permission from the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) domestic cricket department.
SNGPL officials have confirmed Rizwan’s return, according to reports in the Pakistani media. The PCB’s approval gives the experienced international an opportunity to resume competitive cricket after uncertainty over his participation in the tournament.
Rizwan is being investigated by Pakistan’s National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA). The allegations reportedly involve online betting and the disclosure of confidential information from the team dressing room during the England tour. The inquiry remains ongoing, and no final findings have been announced.
His participation in the President’s Trophy had previously been in doubt. The PCB had informed SNGPL that Rizwan should not be included while the investigation continued. Following that development, he stepped away from the team. The latest decision has now paved the way for his return to the side for the concluding round.
Rizwan’s availability could provide a timely boost for SNGPL, who have struggled throughout the competition. The eight-team tournament has proved challenging for the side, which has recorded five draws and one defeat in six matches. With 53 points, they sit at the bottom of the standings.
The return of an experienced international cricketer could strengthen the team’s leadership and improve its prospects in the final fixture. Rizwan is valued for his batting and wicketkeeping, while his experience at the highest level could also help his team-mates approach the match with greater confidence.
However, SNGPL will need a collective effort to overcome their opponents. A positive result would offer some consolation after a difficult campaign and allow the team to finish the tournament on a stronger note.
According to the schedule, SNGPL are due to face Khan Research Laboratories (KRL) at the Shoaib Akhtar Stadium in Rawalpindi on 19 October. KRL are third in the standings, making the fixture a demanding challenge for Rizwan’s side.
SNGPL will be looking to secure a victory in their final outing, although their opponents’ stronger position in the table suggests that the contest will not be straightforward. Rizwan’s leadership and contribution with the bat could prove important if his team are to improve their performance.
For Rizwan, the clearance marks an opportunity to return to the field while the investigation continues. The PCB’s decision should not, however, be interpreted as a conclusion to the inquiry or as confirmation that the allegations have been resolved.
For now, the Pakistan international can focus on his domestic responsibilities as he prepares to lead SNGPL in their final match of the President’s Trophy.