Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has indicated that the investigation into players Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq over alleged dressing-room leaks is nearing completion, with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) expected to submit its findings within the next few days.The two Pakistan cricketers came under investigation following the team’s 0-3 Test series defeat against England. The probe centres on allegations that confidential information and internal discussions from the dressing room were leaked during the England tour.Speaking to the media in Lahore on Thursday, Naqvi confirmed that both players had been permitted to return to domestic cricket despite the ongoing investigation. He also provided an update on the remaining steps in the inquiry, particularly regarding Rizwan.“I have spoken to the NCCIA and they just need more clarity from Rizwan after which they will submit their findings in a few days’ time although I can’t give an exact deadline,” he said.Naqvi also addressed the delay in announcing Pakistan’s new central contracts, revealing that the process had reached its final stage. The PCB is expected to make the announcement shortly, with the previous contracts having expired on July 31. The board has already pushed back the announcement by three months.“I think they are finalised or would be finalised by tomorrow,” he added.
Naqvi responds to concerns over PSL finances
The PCB chairman was also questioned about reports of financial challenges facing the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Responding to concerns over the tournament’s commercial viability, Naqvi pointed towards the amounts involved in the recent sale of new franchises and Multan Sultans.He maintained that franchise owners should not expect immediate financial returns, stressing that investing in a team requires a long-term outlook and proper financial planning.“Whatever the owners of these new franchise know, they can’t expect to make profits after a year or two and they must have done their feasibility report before joining the PSL.”Naqvi further stated that franchise owners looking to exit their investments would be free to sell their teams, provided they followed the league’s established regulations.
PCB chief backs Pakistan cricket management
On the broader state of Pakistan cricket, Naqvi expressed confidence in the people handling the game’s administration and said he would continue supporting them in their work.He also looked ahead to the emergence of a new generation of players, predicting improved performances once the next group of youngsters is ready over the coming six months.“I am there to back them all the time and we are expecting much better results when the next batch of young players are ready in the next six months,” he said.