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.

Pakistan Whitewash Australia 3-0 in T20I Series Ahead of T20 World Cup

Pakistan delivered a massive statement ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup by completing a dominant 3-0 whitewash against Australia in the T20I series. The Green Shirts sealed the clean sweep with a crushing 111-run victory in the third T20I at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on February 1, marking one of Australia’s heaviest defeats in T20 cricket.

This emphatic win has further strengthened Pakistan’s credentials as a serious contender in world cricket, while exposing Australia’s concerns just months before the global tournament.

Solid Batting Sets the Tone for Pakistan

Batting first, Pakistan posted an imposing 207/6, despite an early wobble. The hosts lost Fakhar Zaman and captain Salman Ali Agha cheaply, slipping to 34/2 inside the powerplay. However, Saim Ayub and Babar Azam steadied the innings with a crucial 69-run partnership.

Ayub played with confidence and intent, scoring 56 off 37 balls, mixing aggressive stroke play with smart placement. His innings ensured Pakistan maintained momentum through the middle overs.

Babar Azam Breaks Virat Kohli’s T20I Record

Skipper Babar Azam once again proved his class under pressure, scoring an unbeaten 50 runs. With this knock, Babar surpassed Virat Kohli’s record for the most half-centuries in T20 internationals, registering his 40th fifty in the format.

Former Pakistan cricketers praised Babar’s consistency, calling it a “benchmark moment” for Pakistan cricket ahead of a crucial World Cup year.

Shadab Khan’s Late Assault Pushes Pakistan Past 200

The late overs belonged to Shadab Khan, who smashed 46 runs off just 19 balls, including five towering sixes. Wicketkeeper Khawaja Nafay also chipped in with a quick 21, helping Pakistan cross the 200-run mark with ease.

The strong finish left Australia facing a daunting chase under lights.

Australia Collapse as Pakistan Bowlers Dominate

Chasing 207, Australia suffered a disastrous start and were reduced to 16/3 within three overs. Shaheen Shah Afridi struck early, dismissing captain Mitchell Marsh and setting the tone for the collapse.

The real damage was done by Mohammad Nawaz, who produced a career-best spell of 5 wickets for 18 runs in four overs. Australia struggled badly against spin and were bowled out for just 96 runs in 16.5 overs, their biggest defeat in T20Is by runs.

Why This Series Win Matters Now

This Pakistan vs Australia T20I series win is significant as it comes just ahead of the T20 World Cup. Pakistan’s batting depth, spin strength, and bowling discipline all clicked at the right time, while Australia will need urgent course correction.

Final Takeaway

With this historic result, Pakistan whitewash Australia 3-0 in the T20I series, sending a clear warning to rivals worldwide. For fans, the message is simple—Pakistan are peaking at the perfect moment.