Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Rizwan cleared for domestic cricket return

LAHORE: Pakistan batters Imam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Rizwan have been cleared to return to domestic cricket, paving the way for their participation in the final round of the President’s Trophy Grade-I, according to sources.

Imam will represent Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) in the concluding stage of the competition, which begins on Tuesday. The department has confirmed his availability after receiving clearance from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Meanwhile, wicketkeeper-batter Rizwan is also set to resume competitive action and will captain Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) against Khan Research Laboratories (KRL).

SNGPL director of cricket Mohammad Hafeez confirmed Rizwan’s return, saying the player had received the necessary approval from the PCB’s director of domestic cricket.

The developments mark an important step for the two experienced Pakistan internationals, who had been sidelined from domestic cricket following a series of setbacks during and after the national team’s England tour.

From England Setback to Domestic Comeback

Imam and Rizwan were among seven Pakistan cricketers sent home midway through the England tour in August after Pakistan suffered heavy defeats in the opening two Tests of the three-match series.

Following their return, both players were summoned by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) for questioning in an inquiry into alleged leaks of dressing-room information. Investigators reportedly examined material obtained from the players’ mobile phones.

The PCB subsequently barred the pair from domestic cricket, citing their failure to submit mandatory fitness-test reports to their respective departmental teams.

Their absence from domestic competition raised questions about when they would be able to return to the field. The latest clearances now open the door for both batters to regain match practice in a competitive environment.

Rizwan, Imam Look to Regain Momentum

Rizwan, 34, faced additional scrutiny during the investigation. The NCCIA issued him a notice under Section 160 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, while his mobile phone was taken into the agency’s possession in England on August 31 as part of the inquiry.

Their return to domestic cricket provides an opportunity to rebuild rhythm and demonstrate their readiness through performances at the departmental level.

For OGDCL and SNGPL, the availability of two established international players could strengthen their batting line-ups during the decisive stage of the tournament.

However, their return to domestic action does not necessarily determine their availability for upcoming international assignments, which will depend on the PCB’s selection decisions and any applicable requirements.

With the President’s Trophy entering its final round, attention will now turn to how Imam and Rizwan perform after an unsettled period away from competitive cricket.