In a significant development for Pakistan cricket, Mohammad Rizwan has been announced as the new captain of the ODI and T20I teams. The announcement came during a press conference held by PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi in Lahore. This marks a new chapter for the national team as they prepare for upcoming international tours.
Rizwan steps into this leadership role following Babar Azam’s decision to resign from captaincy. Babar had initially stepped down after Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the ODI World Cup last year. His reappointment in March did not yield the desired results, as the team failed to advance past the group stage in the Men’s T20 World Cup.
Mohammad Rizwan’s First Assignment as Captain
Mohammad Rizwan’s first assignment as captain will be the tour of Australia, starting November 4. Pakistan will play three ODIs and three T20Is during this tour. Following Australia, Rizwan will also lead the team in an ODI series against Zimbabwe, beginning on November 24.
Salman Ali Agha has been named vice-captain and will lead the T20I side in Zimbabwe while Rizwan is rested under a workload management plan. This strategic decision reflects a focus on maintaining player fitness throughout a busy season.
Mohammad Rizwan’s Reaction on Being Appointed Captain
At 32 years old, Rizwan has built an impressive career since his debut in white-ball cricket in 2015. He has played 74 ODIs and 102 T20Is, scoring over 5,400 runs with four centuries. His experience behind the stumps includes 143 dismissals. As he prepares to lead Pakistan in Melbourne on November 4, he will become the team’s 31st captain in ODIs and the 12th in T20Is.
Rizwan expressed his gratitude upon his appointment, stating, “I am deeply honoured to be appointed as Pakistan’s white-ball captain. Representing Pakistan on the global stage is the greatest privilege, and to now be entrusted with leading such a talented and exciting group of players is a tremendous honour.”
He emphasized his commitment to working closely with selectors and coaches. “Together, we aim to meet and exceed the expectations of our fans and supporters.”, he added.
Rizwan Gets Support from PCB Leadership
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi extended his congratulations to Rizwan during the announcement. He stated, “I am confident that Rizwan’s leadership qualities, underpinned by his deep commitment and passion for the game, will help shape this talented team into a consistently successful unit.”
Naqvi also highlighted Rizwan’s respect among peers and his dedication. “These qualities, combined with his game knowledge and performance, will inspire the next generation of Pakistan cricketers.”, he added.
While this is Rizwan’s first time leading Pakistan in ODIs and T20Is, he previously captained during two Tests on the tour of New Zealand in 2020-21. His leadership experience includes guiding Multan Sultans to victory in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) in 2021 and finishing as runners-up in subsequent seasons.
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