New Delhi, September 17 (Daily Kiran) : Pakistani cricketer Mohammad Rizwan has addressed questions from the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) regarding allegations of online betting. He has also raised concerns about the basis of the agency’s investigation.
In his response, the wicketkeeper-batsman requested clarification on the specific allegations against him, questioning why the investigation was not handed over to the ICC’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU). “As a cricketer, I have served the Pakistan team to the best of my ability,” Rizwan stated, emphasizing his commitment to the sport.
Rizwan expressed his confusion over not being informed about the particular incident of online betting he is allegedly linked to. He insisted that the NCCIA should clarify the grounds for their investigation, as he believes it should fall under the jurisdiction of the ICC ACU. “Despite being an active cricketer, the ICC’s Anti-Corruption Unit has not been informed of the allegations against me. It is perplexing why the NCCIA is pursuing this case,” he remarked.
Furthermore, Rizwan demanded full disclosure of the allegations so he could participate in the investigation effectively. Meanwhile, the Lahore High Court has rejected his petition, which argued that the NCCIA had not explained the reasons for questioning him and lacked jurisdiction in the matter. The court dismissed the petition shortly after hearing arguments on Thursday.
Recently, both Rizwan and fellow player Imam-ul-Haq appeared before the NCCIA regarding accusations of information leaks from the team’s dressing room. While Imam answered all questions, Rizwan opted to take the matter to court.
The controversy follows Pakistan’s poor performance in England, where they faced a historic 0-3 defeat in a Test series. After the second Test loss, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) sent Rizwan, Imam, and five other players back home. Reports indicate that following their removal from the squad, their mobile phones were handed over to relevant authorities for scrutiny.
According to a report from ‘The News International,’ the NCCIA is investigating financial matters and suspicious transactions related to the two players. Investigators are examining financial dealings before and during the current Test series and are also reviewing their bank account information.
The inquiry includes a review of banking transactions, and if any suspicious activities are identified, the sources of the funds will be investigated. Rizwan and Imam were among seven players sent home after poor performances in the first two Tests of the three-match series. The PCB subsequently included seven new players in the team and initiated an internal disciplinary investigation.
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