PESHAWAR: Pakistan’s wicketkeeper-batsman, Mohammad Rizwan, responded to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chief Mohsin Naqvi’s comments regarding a ‘major surgery’ in the team following their disappointing performance in the T20 World Cup 2024.
Speaking to reporters in Peshawar on Tuesday, Rizwan admitted that criticism of the Babar Azam-led squad was justified as the team in green could not make it into the Super 8 stage of the mega event.
“The criticism directed at the team is fair; we deserve it because we didn’t meet expectations,” Rizwan stated candidly. “Players who cannot handle criticism cannot succeed.”
Reflecting on the team’s shortcomings in the tournament, Rizwan noted there were various factors contributing to their losses. “When a team loses, you can’t attribute it solely to either batting or bowling,” he maintained.
Regarding the possibility of significant changes in the team lineup, Rizwan said that PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi would make the necessary decisions. “Restructuring is a normal process. When someone is unwell, surgery may be necessary. The PCB chairman is diligent, and the decision on who stays and who goes rests with him,” he explained.
Rizwan’s comments came amidst criticism of his own performance in the T20 World Cup, where he scored 110 runs at a strike rate of 90.9. His dismissal of Jasprit Bumrah in the match against India drew criticism from former Pakistan players, including Wasim Akram, who questioned his decision-making.
Meanwhile, Pakistan pacer Shaheen Afridi responded differently to Naqvi’s remarks, expressing ignorance about any impending changes in the team lineup. “Whose surgery? Is someone ill?” Afridi quizzed when asked about Naqvi’s statements.
In contrast to Rizwan’s acknowledgment of the need for change, Afridi seemed unsure about the potential reshuffling within the team, highlighting varying perspectives within the squad regarding their recent performance and the future direction under PCB’s leadership.
