Overview
In the aftermath of Pakistan’s recent performance in New Zealand, captain Mohammad Rizwan, together with top batter Babar Azam, plans a crucial meeting with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi. The agenda is clear: to discuss their roles in the T20I squad and Rizwan’s need for greater control as captain.
Recent Unsettling Decisions
According to a senior official at the PCB, who preferred to remain anonymous, the decision to exclude Rizwan and Azam from the T20I lineup for the New Zealand series has created significant unrest within the team. This move by the PCB was intended to introduce fresh talent under the new leadership of Salman Agha, sparking frustration among the seasoned players.
Rizwan’s Perspective
Since assuming the white-ball captaincy in October of the previous year, Rizwan has felt sidelined, particularly in the T20 format. “I am not fully in charge as I ought to be,” Rizwan expressed after a disheartening 3-0 loss in New Zealand. His discomfort with the team’s dynamics grew when routine decisions about the playing eleven started overlooking his input.
Rizwan’s dissatisfaction peaked during the initial matches of the New Zealand series, where he clashed with head coach Aaqib Javed over the selection strategy. This stretching of responsibilities led to the exclusion of a fifth regular bowler, resulting in a costly gamble with part-time players who gave away 118 runs collectively.
Potential Changes and Future Prospects
Sources reveal that the PCB is potentially looking to bring in foreign coaches to replace interim coach Aaqib Javed, and discussions are underway with former national players about taking on significant roles. Meanwhile, Rizwan’s immediate focus remains on securing more decisive power within the team structure. If these demands are not met, he may consider stepping down from the ODI captaincy.
With the Pakistan Super League in progress until May 18, followed by a series against Bangladesh, Rizwan aims to resolve these issues promptly to steer his team with clarity and authority in upcoming matches.
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Last Updated: April 10, 2025
