Former Pakistan captain and wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan is expected to return to domestic cricket on Monday, potentially leading Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) against Khan Research Laboratories (KRL) in the President’s Trophy Grade-I.
The match is scheduled to take place at Shoaib Akhtar Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi, although Rizwan’s participation had yet to be officially confirmed.
Sources said the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had allowed Rizwan to feature in domestic cricket. However, an SNGPL team source said his availability would become clear on Monday. PCB officials also declined to comment on the matter.
Rizwan Maintains Fitness Amid Uncertainty
Rizwan’s possible return comes as the domestic first-class season approaches its final stages, with his participation previously restricted amid an investigation by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA).
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his cricketing future, the 33-year-old has continued training regularly in Peshawar and is reportedly in strong physical condition.
“He is in top shape. He never stopped training and regularly went to the ground twice a day for practice,” a source close to Rizwan said.
The source added that Rizwan appeared to have received permission from the PCB and was expected to travel to Rawalpindi for the fixture.
NCCIA Investigation Affected Cricketing Plans
Rizwan was among seven players sent home following Pakistan’s heavy defeat to England at Lord’s. He and fellow batter Imam-ul-Haq were subsequently linked to an NCCIA investigation concerning alleged involvement in online betting.
The allegations remain subject to the ongoing legal process, and no final finding establishing wrongdoing by Rizwan has been reported in the supplied account.
Rizwan challenged the proceedings before the Lahore High Court (LHC). The court dismissed his petition and advised him to cooperate with the NCCIA, while also directing the agency not to harass the cricketer.
The investigation has cast uncertainty over his immediate cricketing plans, although he has continued preparing physically.
Mohammad Rizwan challenges NCCIA summons, questions online betting probe
SNGPL Face Relegation Pressure
If his availability is confirmed, Rizwan is expected to captain SNGPL against KRL in a crucial stage of the President’s Trophy Grade-I competition.
SNGPL are at the bottom of the standings and face the threat of relegation, increasing the importance of their remaining fixtures.
Rizwan’s potential return would provide the side with an experienced international player as it looks to improve its position. However, his participation will depend on confirmation from the team and the relevant cricket authorities.
