All is not well in the Pakistan cricket team as differences have resurfaced after a disastrous tour of New Zealand with skipper Mohammad Rizwan again venting his anger during the captains' press conference ahead of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) in Rawalpindi on Thursday.
In New Zealand, Pakistan lost 4-1 in the Twenty20 series for which they tried some new players with Rizwan and star batter Babar Azam shockingly dropped from the squad. However, when Rizwan returned as captain for the three-match ODI series, Pakistan were whitewashed 3-0.
Asked by Telecom Asia Sport (www.telecomasia.net) on whether there are problems in the team, Rizwan replied: "Media knows all the things very well, What's happening? I am openly saying that whoever has the authority is accountable."
After their third defeat in as many ODIs, Rizwan had questioned his and Babar's sacking from the T20Is. There are reports that Rizwan will meet PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi in the next few days and demand more powers as ODI captain and seek clarity on his future in the T20Is.
He is also believed to have threatened to resign if his demands are not met, sources said. Rizwan further said he was answerable to the Pakistan Cricket Board chairman only and not to the selectors.
Who are we answerable to? We are answerable to the PCB chairman. The whole of Pakistan knows, so if the selection committee is to answer, they have to give an answer.
Rizwan admitted the anger of the fans was justified. "If results are not as per their wishes then they have every right to get angry. This is their right," said Rizwan, who is leading Multan Sultans in the six-team PSL which is starting in Rawalpindi on Friday.
Rizwan went on to add: "I speak from the heart — not in perfect English, but with sincerity". Known for his grit and humility, Rizwan admitted he isn't fluent in English but expressed confidence in his ability to communicate effectively during press conferences and post-match presentations.
I manage to convey my message, and Alhamdulillah (praise be to God), whatever I say comes from the heart.
Reflecting on his education, he added, “I regret not being able to complete my studies, which is why I can’t speak what people call ‘high-class’ English. But my job is to deliver good cricket, not good English.”
Asked if he planned to improve his language skills, Rizwan responded with characteristic honesty: “I can’t become an English professor now by enrolling in a university — that ship has sailed.”
He also voiced frustration at former senior players who criticise without offering support. “Everyone learns from mistakes. If a senior player gives constructive criticism and guidance, we welcome it. After the India match in the Champions Trophy, Wasim bhai (Wasim Akram) was on the mic — his words lifted me. He was in a rush, otherwise I had two more things to ask.”
“The problem is, when a senior criticises but doesn’t help, it creates a gap — and that gap can turn into resentment.”
