Last Updated on 9 seconds ago by Charbel Coorey

Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq have been questioned by Pakistan’s National Cyber Crimes Investigation Agency (NCCIA) in Lahore, adding another layer to the controversy surrounding the Pakistan team’s Test tour of England. Cricinfo reported on Thursday that it had learned of the development but did not say why the questioning took place.

Both were among seven cricketers dropped from Pakistan’s Test squad after the team suffered a heavy defeat by England at Lord’s. Later the NCCIA summoned them, and they appeared before the agency on Thursday. At least one of the two players reportedly spent a number of hours at the agency’s offices.

NCCIA questioning Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq add to growing concerns

It is not known if the NCCIA proceedings have any bearing on Pakistan Cricket Board’s internal investigation into the conduct and discipline of players during the England tour. The PCB said earlier this week it had launched an inquiry after media reports raised concerns about the team’s conduct. The board did not name any players and said it was carrying out the investigation under its existing regulations.

Rizwan had a torrid tour with the bat, scoring 12, 41, 7, and 1 in the two Tests in England. His wicketkeeping remained sharp but he was criticised for his dismissal for one in the second innings at Lord’s as Pakistan suffered a 194-run defeat.

Regarding Imam, the opener picked up a calf injury at Lord’s on day one and did not bat on either day. PCB chief selector Aaqib Javed had publicly questioned the injury and said it could be looked into as part of an inquiry.

The PCB had separately asked its selectors to give written explanations on the selection of Rizwan and Imam for the West Indies and England tours. The selectors were asked to report on their reasons for selecting and the process they followed. Misbah ul Haq, who is on the selection committee, has resigned from his post after the squad was largely revamped.