Curious Case of Nawaz's Failed Dope Test

There is an element of curiosity surrounding Mohammad Nawaz's failed dope test. On the face of it, this is not just a case of the Pakistan all-rounder testing positive for a banned substance, but also one involving questions of jurisdiction. While the case falls under the purview of the International Cricket Council (ICC), the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) appears to have jumped the gun by going public with it.

The PCB's statement that the 32-year-old all-rounder is being investigated appears misplaced, as it is the ICC that must determine the next course of action. Now that it has been confirmed that Nawaz tested positive for a banned recreational drug, rather than a performance-enhancing substance, the first step is to seek an explanation; subsequent action will depend on his response.

Prima facie, the violation may not be as serious as one involving performance-enhancing substances. It is understood that Nawaz has already submitted his explanation on the issue. Normally, a failed dope test leads to the analysis of the B sample, but in cases involving recreational drugs, this may or may not be necessary.

A second sample could be tested if the explanation is not found to be satisfactory. The ICC is understood to be examining the explanation, and no charge has been filed so far.

It remains unclear when and where the dope test on Nawaz was conducted. Reports suggest he faltered during the recent T20 World Cup, but the PCB maintains that the sample was taken while he was undergoing rehabilitation in Lahore. The ICC, as a matter of policy, has declined to comment on the issue, while a PCB spokesperson has confirmed that the board has withdrawn its earlier statement about initiating due process.

Nawaz featured in all of Pakistan's matches, taking seven wickets in six games at an average of 22.28 and economy rate of 7.8. He scored 15 runs in five innings.

It has come to light, meanwhile, that Wasim Khan, the general manager, has resigned. He has been with the world body for four years. He has informed friends that he will exit the ICC in June and will join a new organisation that is not connected to the game. Khan was a former CEO of the PCB.