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Pakistan's newly appointed white-ball captain Mohammad Rizwan took a subtle dig at his predecessor, Babar Azam, during a recent press conference. Rizwan cautioned against ego and self-importance, stating that such an attitude could lead to the team's downfall. This remark was seen as a reference to Babar Azam, who is often referred to as the 'King' of Pakistan cricket.
Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan's new white-ball captain
Mohammad Rizwan was officially named the new captain of Pakistan's white-ball cricket team on October 27. This appointment follows Babar Azam's resignation from the role. Salman Ali Agha has been named as Rizwan's deputy.
Babar announced his decision to step down from the captaincy of both ODI and T20I teams on October 2nd. He cited a desire to focus on his batting performance and personal growth as the reason for his decision. This marks the second time in the past year that Babar Azam has relinquished the captaincy. He was previously removed as white-ball captain after the 2023 World Cup and later resigned as Test captain. Subsequently, he was reappointed as T20I captain after Shaheen Afridi's removal.
In his first address as Pakistan's new white-ball captain, Mohammad Rizwan expressed his commitment to serving his teammates. He emphasized the importance of humility and teamwork, stating that he would not adopt an authoritative or egotistical approach. Rizwan assured fans that the team would exhibit a strong fighting spirit and strive to make the nation proud.
"If I start considering myself a king as captain, then everything will fall apart. Rather, as a leader, I am here to serve the 15 men of the team. This is how it should be. Regarding achievements, Inshallah, we have the messages and support from everyone in our box, who are asking us only one thing: fight, fight, and fight. They keep sending us this message again and again, and we will try our best, Inshallah, to show the whole nation that there is no lack of fight in us," Rizwan said at the press conference.
"We have left the results to Allah, and whatever the outcome, we accept it. But in terms of fighting spirit, there will be no shortage—this is our guarantee," Rizwan added.
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed optimism about the future of the Pakistan cricket team under the leadership of Mohammad Rizwan. Naqvi stated that the PCB would continue to support Rizwan and his team as they strive for success.
