Why Mohammad Rizwan Barred From President’s Trophy? Here’s Reason

LAHORE: The reason behind Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan’s absence from the President’s Trophy has emerged, with sources saying the decision is linked to an ongoing inquiry rather than a fitness test.

According to sources, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has also stopped Rizwan from practising at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) while the inquiry is underway.

Sources said Rizwan had joined his departmental team Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) in Islamabad.

In the absence of Shan Masood, the department had asked Rizwan to lead the team. He also participated in the department’s practice session and team meeting.

However, sources said the PCB subsequently contacted the SNGPL management and informed them that an inquiry involving Rizwan was ongoing.

The department management then conveyed the PCB’s instructions to Rizwan and asked him to return.

According to the sources, SNGPL management was prepared to conduct Rizwan’s fitness test immediately so that he could take part in domestic cricket.

After returning to Lahore, Rizwan contacted the PCB regarding practice at the National Cricket Academy.

However, sources said he was not allowed to practise at the NCA.

Sources further said that no player returning from the England tour underwent a fitness test through his respective department for participation in the President’s Trophy.

Rizwan is currently in his hometown Peshawar, where he has been continuing his practice.

The PCB has not publicly disclosed details of the inquiry involving Rizwan, and the nature and status of the proceedings remain unclear.