NCCIA investigation into Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq nearing completion: Naqvi

Speaking to the media in Lahore, Naqvi said he had contacted the NCCIA, which had sought further clarification from Rizwan before finalising its findings. He said the investigation was expected to conclude within a few days, although he could not provide an exact timeline.

The PCB chairman confirmed that both players had been allowed to resume domestic cricket despite the investigation remaining pending. Rizwan and Imam came under scrutiny following allegations that confidential information and dressing-room matters were leaked during Pakistan's 0-3 Test series defeat in England.

Regarding the central contracts, Naqvi said the new agreements had been finalised or would be completed by the following day, adding that their announcement would be made soon. The announcement is already around three months behind schedule, as the previous central contracts expired on July 31.

Responding to concerns about the financial prospects of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), Naqvi highlighted the substantial amounts paid for the newly introduced franchises and Multan Sultans. He said franchise owners should not expect to generate profits within just one or two years and should have conducted proper feasibility studies before investing in the league.

Naqvi added that existing or prospective franchise owners interested in selling their teams at a profit were free to do so, provided they followed the prescribed rules and regulations.

When asked about the selection of several players for their Test debuts and the subsequent dropping of some after only a few opportunities, the PCB chairman expressed satisfaction with the overall state of Pakistan cricket. He said he had full confidence in his team to manage the affairs of the game and assured the cricket administration of his continued support.

Naqvi expressed hope that Pakistan would achieve significantly better results once the next batch of young players was ready over the coming six months.

He also announced that renovation work at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Lahore was being initiated, with January 31, 2027, set as the completion deadline., the upgraded facility would have the capacity to accommodate a larger number of players for training.