Pakistan’s Mohammad Rizwan, left, stands with batting partner Saud Shakeel (AP Photo)
Rizwan Struggles in Series Against England
Mohammad Rizwan faced significant challenges during the recent series against England, managing just 61 runs over four innings. His performance drew criticism, particularly regarding his shot selection and perceived lack of game awareness.
Sending them back is not a good message for the remaining players,” Akmal said on the ‘Game Plan’ show. Former Pakistan cricketer Kamran Akmal has criticised the Pakistan Cricket Board’s decision to release seven players from the squad midway through the England Test series, arguing that the move could have a damaging impact on the remaining members of the team. “There was one more Test left. You could have had both Agha and Rizwan in the squad. You could have dropped them from the playing XI. You should have kept them in the squad. They are your senior players. They have been captains. The former wicketkeeper-batter believes the decision could increase the pressure on those still in the squad, particularly with Pakistan already struggling during the series. “This will result in more pressure for the remainder of the team. It is not a good decision; if you are sending them back, then the chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, needs to rejig the entire system. Make a new team. This decision to send back players is not good for our country, and it doesn’t send a good message to the rest of the world,” he added. Agha’s situation has also raised questions over the timing of the decision. He captained Pakistan in the opening Test at Headingley in Babar Azam’s absence but was subsequently dropped when the regular captain returned for the Lord’s Test.
The PCB confirmed on Monday evening that Mohammad Rizwan , Salman Ali Agha and Imam-ul-Haq were among the seven players sent back to Pakistan after the team’s disappointing results in the first two Tests against England.