News by “Sana Ullah”
Pakistan’s wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan has dismissed reports suggesting he declined to shift to the one-down position during the T20I series against New Zealand in January.
In an interview with a local news outlet, Rizwan reiterated his readiness to adapt to any role for the national team, including potentially surrendering his wicketkeeping duties.
“I never declined to play one down. When asked, I confirmed my availability,” Rizwan stated.
He further emphasized his flexibility by expressing his willingness to bowl if needed and even offering to give up wicketkeeping duties.
The top-order batsman highlighted his extensive experience batting at various positions, underscoring his versatility to slot in anywhere in the lineup. “If you look at my career so far, in 26 matches, I have batted at numbers 7, 8, and 9. No batsman has gone in at number 9, I have,” he remarked.
Rizwan affirmed his ongoing readiness to fulfill any role required by the team, reaffirming his previous readiness and commitment.
In the T20I series against New Zealand, the inclusion of young opening batsman Saim Ayub necessitated either Rizwan or Babar Azam to adjust their batting order. Consequently, Rizwan partnered with Ayub at the top, while Azam assumed the number three position.
Despite Azam’s three consecutive half-centuries at number three, Pakistan ultimately lost the series 4-1.
