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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed Mohammad Rizwan as the new captain of Pakistan’s white-ball cricket team, a role he steps into following Babar Azam’s resignation earlier this month.
Mohammad Rizwan appointed as Pakistan’s new white-ball captain
Babar, who initially stepped down after Pakistan’s ODI World Cup 2023 performance, briefly returned to the captaincy before officially relinquishing the role on October 2. In the interim, Shaheen Afridi led Pakistan in a T20I series against New Zealand, which resulted in a heavy defeat.
Though Rizwan has yet to captain Pakistan in an international white-ball format, he brings extensive leadership experience from domestic cricket and his role as captain in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), where he has proven his tactical acumen and composure under pressure. His leadership will now be central to Pakistan’s plans in both T20I and ODI formats as the team aims to rebuild and focus on upcoming international competitions.
3 reasons why PCB’s decision to name Mohammad Rizwan as white-ball captain is a wise move:
1. Consistency and Proven Leadership in Domestic Circuits
Rizwan’s track record as captain of the Multan Sultans in the PSL is a testament to his ability to lead teams with unwavering consistency. Since taking charge in 2021, Rizwan not only led the Sultans to their maiden PSL title but has also turned them into one of the most formidable sides in the league. His strategic thinking and knack for getting the best out of his players have been instrumental in propelling the Sultans to the PSL finals in three consecutive seasons from 2022 to 2024.
Despite narrowly missing out on additional titles, Rizwan’s leadership marked by resilience and a winning mentality. His ability to consistently guide the Sultans to the final stage of one of the world’s most competitive T20 leagues underscores his readiness to take on Pakistan’s white-ball captaincy, where he can bring that same level of performance and discipline.
Also READ: 3 potential contenders to succeed Gary Kirsten as Pakistan’s next white-ball coach
2. A Calm Presence Amid Transitions
The past year has seen Pakistan cricket undergo a series of leadership changes, with Babar initially stepping down, Afridi taking over briefly, and Babar’s return, only for him to step down once again after a disappointing ODI World Cup. In such a shifting environment, Rizwan’s calm demeanor and ability to stay focused under pressure make him the ideal candidate to provide stability to Pakistan’s white-ball team.
Rizwan’s on-field composure and mature leadership style can anchor a team that’s still reeling from the turbulence of captaincy transitions and inconsistent performances on the global stage. His presence will not only help Pakistan restore consistency but also foster a cohesive team environment where players can focus solely on their roles and performance, rather than being affected by the leadership shifts. With Rizwan at the helm, Pakistan’s white-ball team can begin to regain its footing and build towards a more stable, winning culture.
3. Experience and Performance Inspiration for Younger Players
Although Rizwan’s international captaincy experience has been limited to a brief stint against New Zealand in 2020-21, his performances as a player speak volumes about his commitment and skill. In that series, he impressed by scoring three half-centuries in four innings, underscoring his capability to lead by example. Beyond the numbers, Rizwan’s work ethic and dedication to both fitness and performance provide an invaluable model for younger players in the squad.
As a senior player who consistently performs under pressure, Rizwan is well-positioned to inspire the next generation of cricketers to push their boundaries and strive for excellence. His consistent runs and fitness regime set a standard for emerging players, emphasizing that excellence is achieved through dedication and discipline. Under Rizwan’s leadership, younger players can learn to maintain high standards, develop resilience, and pursue their full potential, thereby contributing to a stronger, more unified Pakistan team.
