KARACHI: Rawalpindi captain Mohammad Rizwan gave an honest and introspective assessment of his recent performances following a disappointing exit from Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 after their seventh straight defeat.
Reflecting on his contribution to the Big Bash League, Rizwan revealed that he openly acknowledged his struggles at the time and did not shy away from self-criticism.
“When I was playing in the Big Bash League, after I got selected, I made it clear that I was not fit to be in the Pakistan team based on this performance. The same person sitting in front of you, you were the one who told me you can’t hit a six, if you remember,” Rizwan said.
The right-handed batsman also shared details of a candid conversation with teammate Haris Rauf, highlighting that his honesty about his form extends beyond public statements.
“Even now, I am honest – Haris is sitting behind Rauf and if we have that conversation, he is a witness. When we were having dinner there, I told Haris that because of my current performance in the Big Bash League, I do not deserve to be in the Pakistan team. His words to me at that time, I cannot repeat – but he knows,” he said.
Insisting on accountability, he admits his shortcomings but is determined to fight through tough times rather than walk away from the game.
“I want to say this: we are all human. I have made mistakes and I admitted early on that my performance was not up to the mark. But that doesn’t mean I will lose heart, defeat, or quit cricket. If I have the strength, I will continue. If not, I have already gone to the Pakistan captain.
Facing criticism over his recent form, the right-handed batsman reiterated his commitment to accountability and his willingness to face tough questions from the media.
“I have said this many times even when Sarfaraz Ahmed was in the team. I will repeat it again. I am not afraid of questions, I am not afraid of the media. If something is not right in me, it is not. If you think I should retire at this age, I will,” Rizwan said.
He also reflected on his deep passion for cricket, underlining that the sport remains his only focus despite the ongoing challenges.
Acknowledging his recent setbacks, Rizwan vowed to come back stronger through more effort and determination.
“For me, cricket is passion – it comes first. Be it T20, Test or ODI, I love cricket. I play because I don’t know anything else in life. I don’t have any business, I don’t play any other sport,” he said.
“Yes, I’ve failed right now. I’m sitting in front of you without performance. Maybe I didn’t work hard enough. Maybe I’ll come back stronger with more effort and meet you again. But now, my hard work isn’t enough – that’s why you’re seeing these results,” he concluded.