[WATCH] ‘BCCI does not allow ICC to conduct dope tests on Indian players’ – Ahmed Shehzad makes stunning remark

Former Pakistan batter Ahmed Shehzad has made a sensational claim regarding anti-doping protocols in international cricket, alleging that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) does not permit the International Cricket Council (ICC) to conduct dope tests on Indian players. This comes ahead of India’s much-anticipated semifinal clash against England at the T20 World Cup 2026. 

Doping tests in international cricket are carried out under regulations set by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), with the ICC overseeing the process. These tests typically involve random or targeted urine and blood samples to detect the presence of banned substances. Players can be tested both during competitions and outside match periods as part of the effort to maintain the sport’s integrity. If found guilty, the ICC can penalise the concerned player for violating the rules.

However, Shehzad claimed that the BCCI conducts its own anti-doping tests instead of allowing ICC-appointed officials to perform them. The former Pakistan opener also alleged that the Indian board trusts its own technology over external testing mechanisms.

“BCCI does not allow the ICC to conduct dope tests on Indian players during ICC events. Dope tests are used to check whether players are taking drugs or banned substances. Whenever the ICC asks to conduct dope tests on Indian players, the BCCI rejects it and says they have better technology to test their players themselves,” said Shehzad speaking on a television show.  

It is worth noting that Shehzad did not present any evidence to substantiate his claims, and the statement remains unverified. Neither the BCCI nor the ICC has issued any official response regarding the allegation so far.

Mohammad Amir backs England over India ahead of the semifinal

Meanwhile, former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has taken his side for the upcoming India-England semifinal clash. Citing India’s struggling batting unit, he said that the English side will emerge victorious.

“But if you talk about India, only one or two of their batters are performing. That batter often takes it all the way, but only one or two are able to perform. If you look at their overall batting, it is not in form. You cannot be sure that this team will dominate. I think England will be the favourites,” he was quoted as saying by the Times Now. 

The two heavyweights are set to collide at the Wankhede Stadium, on March 5. The winner will go on to face New Zealand for the ultimate clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, on March 8.