Rizwan satisfied with blend of youth, experience

KARACHI: Pakistan’s white-ball cricket captain Mohammad Rizwan expressed confidence in the team’s blend of young and experienced players as they departed for their upcoming series against Australia.

Speaking to media on the eve of the team’s departure, Rizwan highlighted the importance of establishing a balanced squad ahead of the 2025 Champions Trophy, scheduled to be hosted by Pakistan.

“We have crafted a combination that brings together both emerging talent and seasoned players, we have changed some players from the last T20 we played in World cup, we have brought in some new faces from Champions Cup,” Rizwan said.

“Imam and Fakhar are top performers of white-ball people and one can always miss their top performers but we are trying to achieve a balance ahead of champions trophy,” he added.

Addressing a question about the return of opening batter Fakhar Zaman, Rizwan praised Fakhar’s ability to change games single-handedly in any playing conditions, as he has done in the past. “There’s no question about Fakhar’s impact, he is an influential player who can change the game singlehandedly on any conditions,” he stated. “While some decisions are beyond my control, we have discussed his potential return and hope the matter will soon be resolved.”

Rizwan also discussed the challenges of playing in Australia, saying that while “at home we could prepare pitches what suited us, the pitches in Australia would be beyond our control.

“Aqib Javed’s decision during England series helped Pakistan, we had been talking about having favorable pitches at home for a long time and when Aqib bhai came, he made sure we get such pitches that helped us in getting positive results. Australia is always a tough condition for visiting teams, pitches there can’t be controlled by us or Aqib bhai but we have prepared a team with consultation,” he said.

Rizwan, when asked about Pakistan’s hunt for a new head coach for the white-ball team, said that whoever comes in, the team will work with him. “When you’re playing for country then you’re beyond individuals.

“Our focus is always on playing for Pakistan, not on individual positions. Whoever is chosen as head coach, we will work together to achieve our goals.”

Rizwan clarified that he is not aiming for sweeping changes in the team’s setup. “It’s not about replacing everything. If something isn’t broken, there’s no need to fix it,” he explained.

The captain noted that the opening pair would be flexible, adapting to situational needs and conditions. “We will do whatever is best for team Pakistan. We will see if me and Babar are suited as openers or we need to have another combination. It depends on condition and situation,” he said.

“Our focus is on the Champions Trophy and the World Cup; by then, we aim to have a well-rounded squad ready to compete.” Rizwan added.

Rizwan, who was named captain of Pakistan’s white ball team after Babar stepped down from the position, said he never aspired to the role but is honored to lead. “I never sought captaincy, but I am glad that my views have been respected throughout, even when Sarfaraz Ahmed led the team,” he said.

Emphasising the importance of nurturing future leaders, Rizwan added, “I want every player to feel like a captain. It’s a challenge and an honor, and I aim to leave a legacy of leadership.”

With Pakistan set to host the Champions Trophy in 2025, Rizwan expressed hope for a historic visit by the Indian cricket team.

“Fans here love Indian cricketers, and they would be thrilled to see the Indian team play in Pakistan. If they come, we will give them a warm welcome,” he said, recalling the warm reception Pakistan received during their last visit to India.