Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan has hit back at the growing debate over his place in the national T20 side, calling the criticism “unfair” and “based on short-term form.” His comments come just days before the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to announce its squad for the 2025 T20 World Cup, with intense speculation over whether Rizwan or rising star Azam Khan will secure the gloves.
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“Numbers Don’t Lie” – Rizwan Defends His Record: Despite a dip in strike rate in recent matches, Rizwan remains one of Pakistan’s most consistent performers in T20 cricket. The 32-year-old pointed to his career average of 50+ and 20+ fifties in the format, arguing that his role as an anchor has been crucial in high-pressure games.
“Critics talk about strike rates, but do they remember the match-winning knocks in the 2022 World Cup and Asia Cup?” Rizwan said in a press interaction. “My job is to build innings, not just swing at every ball. If the team needs firepower, we have finishers for that.”
Azam Khan vs. Rizwan – The Great Wicketkeeping Debate: The discussion has intensified due to the explosive form of Azam Khan, whose 160+ strike rate in recent PSL and T20I matches has made him a fan favorite. Many former players, including Shoaib Malik, have publicly backed Azam for the World Cup, citing the need for a more aggressive middle-order presence.
However, Rizwan’s supporters argue that his experience, leadership, and ability to handle pressure in ICC tournaments make him indispensable. PCB insiders suggest that chief selector Mohammad Hafeez is leaning toward including both, with Rizwan opening and Azam playing as a finisher.
PCB Under Pressure as Decision Looms: With the squad announcement expected in the next 48 hours, the PCB faces a tough call: stick with the proven veteran or embrace the power-hitting revolution? Sources indicate that captain Babar Azam prefers Rizwan’s stability, while coach Gary Kirsten is reportedly pushing for a more dynamic approach.
As the debate rages on, one thing is clear—Pakistan’s T20 World Cup campaign could hinge on this make-or-break selection call. Will Rizwan silence his critics once again, or is it finally time for Azam Khan’s era to begin?
