Pakistan’s wicketkeeper-batsman, Mohammad Rizwan, expressed his indifference towards personal milestones and emphasized his focus on the team’s objectives. During a press conference preceding the third ODI against New Zealand on May 3, Rizwan stated that individual achievements held no significance for him. He emphasized the importance of adhering to the captain’s game plan, as it constituted the sole priority for the team. Rizwan acknowledged the diversity of opinions among players and respected their perspectives.
Following Pakistan’s loss in the recent T20I against New Zealand on April 24 in Rawalpindi, Rizwan faced considerable criticism. Despite his impressive knock of 98 not out, which contributed to Pakistan’s total of 193-5 in 20 overs, fans and observers noticed Rizwan’s deceleration as he approached his second T20I century. Consequently, Pakistan managed to score only 28 runs in the final three overs.
In the closing over of the innings, Imad Wasim attempted a single to provide Rizwan, batting at 98, with the strike to reach his hundred. However, this mindset was met with disapproval from fans and followers of the game.
During the press conference, Rizwan shed light on the matter, explaining that the team received instructions from the dressing room that a total around 180 would suffice to win the match. He emphasized that the focus was to score runs according to the given target. Rizwan clarified that there had been no discussion about taking a single. When the team’s score neared 190, Imad deemed it sufficient for the pitch conditions and decided to go for the single, resulting in his unfortunate run out. Ultimately, Rizwan fell short of completing his century.
Acknowledging the team’s mistake, Rizwan admitted that criticism was justified, particularly considering their loss. Additionally, he attributed their misfortune to factors such as the presence of dew and frequent misfielding. Rizwan expressed acceptance of the challenging questions they were facing due to their defeat.
Reiterating his disregard for personal milestones, Rizwan highlighted that Fakhar Zaman, another Pakistani cricketer, was likely not preoccupied with achieving 3,000 runs. Although he acknowledged the possibility that Zaman might have had it in the back of his mind, Rizwan made it clear that such considerations were not his concern.