Pakistan’s wicketkeeper-batsman, Mohammad Rizwan, has clarified his position on batting orders and team strategy, emphasizing his flexibility and dedication to the team’s success.
In an exclusive interview with Cricket Pakistan, Rizwan addressed recent discussions regarding his batting position, stating, “I never declined to bat at number one. When asked, I expressed my availability.”
Rizwan further emphasized his adaptability, expressing his willingness to bowl and even give up wicket-keeping duties if necessary. “I also mentioned that if needed, I am prepared to bowl. I am even willing to relinquish my wicket-keeping role,” he added.
Reflecting on his career, Rizwan highlighted his versatility by mentioning his appearances at various batting positions. “If you examine my career, I have batted at numbers 7, 8, and 9 in 26 matches. I’ve even batted at number 9, which is uncommon for a batsman. I cannot say I won’t do something. I was prepared before, and I am still prepared now,” Rizwan stated.
Regarding recent team losses and changes to the opening pair with Babar Azam, Rizwan clarified that attributing these defeats to batting order alterations would be inaccurate. “I was asked if separating my opening partnership with Babar affected Pakistan. Perhaps I didn’t grasp the question fully at the time, but I mentioned it hurt Pakistan because we lost four matches. I didn’t mean it hurt Pakistan because we were separated as an opening pair,” Rizwan explained.
“We understand what is best for Pakistan, and who determines that? The coach and the captain can assess. Even during the New Zealand tour, Shaheen implemented a rotation policy to extract the best from each player. We don’t say that we erred by making adjustments, but we urge a logical approach that benefits Pakistan,” he concluded.
