Pakistani All-Rounder Mohammad Nawaz Suspended for Three Months for Anti-Doping Violation

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has imposed a three-month suspension on Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz after finding him guilty of violating anti-doping regulations. Nawaz admitted to the use of a prohibited substance, and the ICC has allowed his suspension period to be reduced to one month if he completes the prescribed treatment program. Following the Twenty20 World Cup 2026 match against the Netherlands, all of Nawaz’s individual performances have been annulled by the ICC.

Kathmandu, 18 July – The ICC has taken disciplinary action against 32-year-old Mohammad Nawaz for breaching anti-doping rules. Nawaz tested positive for “Carboxy-THC,” a banned substance under ICC’s list of substances of abuse, during doping tests conducted after the Sri Lanka match against the Netherlands held in Colombo as part of the 2026 T20 World Cup. Nawaz has accepted responsibility for this violation.

As the substance was confirmed to have been used outside of competition and not to enhance sporting performance, the ICC has imposed a three-month suspension effective from 1 May 2026, the date Nawaz began his voluntary provisional suspension. Furthermore, if Nawaz successfully completes the ICC’s substance abuse treatment program, his ineligibility period will be limited to one month. Having already served two months and 15 days of the suspension, he will not have to serve any additional period upon completing the treatment. According to the ICC, all of Nawaz’s individual performances from the match against the Netherlands on 7 February through 1 May 2026 have been invalidated.