Mohammad Rizwan writes third letter to NCCIA, seeks details on inquiry

In his letter, Mohammad Rizwan confirmed that he would appear before the NCCIA on 2 October. He said he had received the notice and confirmed that he would join the inquiry on 2 October.

Rizwan also sought details from the NCCIA on further questions.

The wicketkeeper said the first notice had made allegations of online betting and gambling. In court, he said, the agency had cited the electronic fraud section of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016. The new notice makes no mention of online betting and gambling allegations, he said, and the unclear position should be clarified.

Rizwan said in the letter that he needed clarification on a few questions to understand the matter. Is the inquiry still related to online betting or gambling? Which specific provisions of PECA 2016 relate to the inquiry? If the scope of the inquiry has changed since the first notice, he asked to be informed of the current scope in writing.

Mohammad Rizwan asked in the letter whether the allegation of betting and gambling had become linked to allegations that damage the reputation of his cricket career. He also asked whether the PCB, the ICC Anti-Corruption Unit or any other relevant cricket body had been informed about the inquiry. Had any information been obtained from, or any contact made with, the PCB or the ICC?

The wicketkeeper said his mobile phone was with the NCCIA. He said he had given the password in England and at the first appearance. The device was opened and examined again in his presence, he said. He said he had not been given a receipt for the seizure of his phone, a warrant, a custody record or any written document about its continued retention.

Rizwan asked what further cooperation was required from him personally for the forensic examination. He said the forensic examination should be completed without delay and his phone returned immediately.

Mohammad Rizwan said he had still not been told what exactly he was accused of. He said he was ready to cooperate and assist fully with any lawful inquiry.