Mohammad Rizwan is set to challenge claims that he has not cooperated with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), with the Pakistan wicketkeeper batter preparing to formally seek clarification from the agency over the allegations.
According to a report by Geo Super, Rizwan intends to write to the NCCIA and question the claims surrounding his participation in the ongoing inquiry. Sources close to the 34-year-old maintain that he is prepared to cooperate with investigators but wants written details of the allegations against him.
Rizwan’s side disputes non-cooperation claims
Rizwan’s planned approach follows conflicting accounts over the extent of his cooperation with the investigation. His side maintains that when he previously appeared before the NCCIA, he provided investigators access to his personal mobile phone and supplied the password to his iPhone.
Following that appearance, Rizwan did not receive another notice from the agency and was not informed in writing that there were concerns about his level of cooperation, according to sources close to the cricketer. His renewed communication with the NCCIA is expected to seek clarity on the basis for the allegations now being raised against him.
The development follows concerns from the agency’s side over its ability to progress the inquiry. As previously reported by cricexec, Rizwan’s alleged non-cooperation had delayed the investigation, with officials seeking his availability for the forensic examination of his mobile phone and considering further action if they could not secure his participation.
Investigators had made several attempts to contact Rizwan, encountering occasions when they could not reach him and others when he indicated that he would consult his lawyer before responding. The agency had also offered to send investigators to Rizwan if he was unable to attend its office.
Forensic examination remains outstanding
Rizwan’s presence is sought because investigators want to conduct the forensic examination of his phone while he is present. An alternative method is available, but it carries the possibility of data being lost during the process.
The inquiry also involves Pakistan opening batter Imam-ul-Haq. Both players previously appeared before the NCCIA after their mobile phones were taken into custody following Pakistan’s Test series against England.
A Special Investigation Team is handling the matter involving the two cricketers, while Imam has begun cooperating with investigators and the forensic examination of his phone is underway.
No final finding has been announced against Rizwan or Imam. The NCCIA has also maintained that it has not contacted the International Cricket Council over the investigation and that the inquiry does not conflict with the ICC’s rules.
The immediate focus for Rizwan is now on obtaining the NCCIA’s position in writing, including details of the allegations against him, as the agency continues seeking his participation in the outstanding forensic process.
