Pakistan all-rounder tests positive for recreational drug use during T20 World Cup 2026, PCB launches investigation: Report

"The International Cricket Council (ICC) has informed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) about this matter, and PCB has begun the due process. The results of this process will be communicated to the ICC today," a PCB spokesperson told ESPNCricinfo on April 22.

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As per ESPNCricinfo, the positive result came via regular testing during the T20 World Cup 2026. Pakistan played all their matches in Sri Lanka. The 32-year-old had scored just 15 runs from five innings and claimed seven wickets in the tournament where Pakistan faced exit from Super 8 stage.

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Nawaz's Surrey deal cancelled

In the aftermath of Nawaz testing positive for recreational drug use, his deal with Surrey has fallen apart. He had already been granted the No-Objection Certificate (NOC) to play in England's T20 Blast. The signing was set to be announced in the ongoing week. But, the all-rounder won't feature in the T20 league which will be played from May 26 to July 18. Surrey has declined to comment on the issue. 

Nawaz's struggle continues in PSL 2026

Currently, the southpaw is representing Multan Sultans in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026. His poor form has continued in the PSL 2026 as well. He has managed to score 36 runs from four innings. With the ball, he has claimed six wickets at an average of 32.66. His economy rate is 10.88 runs per over.