Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz has tested positive in a drug test conducted during the 2026 T20 World Cup, according to reports. The International Cricket Council (ICC) informed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which has now initiated an official investigation into the matter.

Sample and timeline

The sample in question was collected during the T20 World Cup held in Sri Lanka earlier this year. Nawaz, 32, featured in all seven matches for Pakistan during the tournament, where the team exited at the Super 8 stage. He managed 15 runs and picked up seven wickets across those games.

PCB begins inquiry

PCB officials confirmed that the board has been formally notified by the ICC and has started its internal process. “The matter has been communicated to us, and due procedure is underway. Findings will be shared with the ICC,” a PCB spokesperson said on Wednesday.

The board, however, clarified that the investigation is still ongoing and no final conclusion has been reached so far.

Anti-doping framework

The case is being handled under the ICC’s anti-doping regulations, which follow strict confidentiality protocols. According to available information, the positive test is linked to a recreational drug rather than a performance-enhancing substance.

The ICC has not issued any public statement, maintaining its standard practice of non-disclosure until the process is complete.

Career impact begins

The development has already begun to affect Nawaz’s professional commitments. He was expected to join Surrey for the upcoming T20 Blast in England, with the PCB having issued a No Objection Certificate (NOC).

However, the deal has now been called off. The club was reportedly set to announce his signing this week, but the move has been halted following the doping report.

Playing despite probe

Despite the ongoing investigation, Nawaz continues to feature in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). He is currently playing for Multan Sultans and has participated in recent matches, including an outing against Rawalpindi in Karachi where he bowled three overs without taking a wicket.

His continued participation suggests that no provisional suspension has been imposed yet, which is consistent with ICC procedures until a formal ruling is made.

What lies ahead

If the investigation confirms a violation of anti-doping rules, Nawaz could face sanctions ranging from suspension to other disciplinary measures. The duration and severity of any punishment will depend on the nature of the substance involved and the findings of the inquiry.

This case has drawn attention within cricketing circles, given Nawaz’s role as a regular in Pakistan’s white-ball setup. With 98 T20 Internationals to his name, he remains a key figure in the squad.