T20 World Cup doping row: Nawaz may face 6-month ban, PCB submits report to ICC

Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz has landed in the middle of a developing anti-doping controversy, with the possibility of facing anything from a warning to a six-month suspension following a reported positive test for a banned recreational substance during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has asked the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to conduct a detailed investigation, aiming to ensure due process while speeding up proceedings. The final outcome will depend on factors such as the quantity of the substance found and the circumstances surrounding its use.

According to the report by The News, Dr Waqar Ahmad, founder chairman of the Anti-Doping Organisation of Pakistan, clarified the framework governing such cases. “There is no punishment for the use of recreational substances outside competition,” he explained. “However, if such substances are detected during competition, the athlete may face consequences ranging from a simple reprimand to a suspension of up to six months.”

He added that “Each case is judged on its merits. Education, intent, and rehabilitation all play a role in determining the outcome.”

With Nawaz currently in Pakistan, the ICC has delegated the probe to the PCB for logistical and practical reasons. The PCB’s medical panel has already completed its investigation and submitted a report to the ICC, which will make the final decision since the alleged violation occurred during an ICC event.

“It is a time-consuming and resource-intensive exercise for ICC committee members to travel and conduct inquiries locally,” Dr Waqar noted. “Therefore, the subordinate body is entrusted to carry out a thorough probe and submit its findings to the game’s governing body for final adjudication.”

Recreational substances commonly flagged in such cases include cannabis, cocaine, and MDMA. Nawaz is expected to clarify how the substance entered his system, whether through inadvertent use, medication, or other means. There is also a possibility that prescribed medication during a rehabilitation phase could play a role in his defense which he used ahead of T20 World Cup 2026.

Nawaz was set to join Surrey County Cricket Club for the upcoming T20 Blast after receiving a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the PCB. However, the deal has now reportedly fallen through, and he will no longer feature for the club this summer. Despite the ongoing investigation, Nawaz has continued to play in the Pakistan Super League, representing Multan Sultans. He recently bowled three wicketless overs in their six-wicket win over Rawalpindi in Karachi. The outcome of the investigation will be crucial in determining Nawaz’s future in international cricket. If found guilty of violating anti-doping regulations, he could face suspension or further disciplinary action.