After Shaheen, Rizwan reacts to PCB chief’s 'major surgery' comments

Rizwan urges his fellow players to prioritize nation's interests and use the strength correctly

PESHAWAR:

Wicketkeeper-batter, Mohammad Rizwan, has acknowledged the criticism aimed at the national team following their premature departure from the T20 World Cup 2024, co-hosted by the USA and West Indies.

Speaking to reporters in Peshawar, Rizwan accepted the scrutiny, emphasising that criticism is a natural part of sports and essential for improvement.

"The criticism the team is facing is justified, and we deserve this since we didn’t perform in accordance with expectations. Players who can’t face criticism won’t be able to succeed," Rizwan stated while addressing the media in Peshawar.

"We are disappointed with our performance in the T20 World Cup. There are multiple reasons behind our losses. When a team loses, one can’t say that bowling and batting is doing well," he added.

The wicketkeeper-batter also addressed PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi's suggestion to implement reforms in Pakistan cricket. "Operations are a normal thing. When a person is ill, operation is necessary," he said.

"PCB Chairman is a hard-working person. The decision about who will remain in the team and who will not is the chairman's right," he concluded.

It is worth noting that the Men in Green had a disappointing T20 World Cup campaign. They faced an upset defeat at the hands of co-hosts the USA, followed by a crucial loss against arch-rivals India.

Despite winning their last two matches against Canada and Ireland, it wasn't enough to advance to the next round, resulting in their elimination from the tournament.

A day earlier, star pacer Shaheen Afridi took a humorous jab at Mohsin Naqvi following his comments about the Pakistan cricket team after their dismal performance in the 2024 T20 World Cup.

Addressing reporters on Monday, Shaheen quipped, "Koi Beemar Hogaya (Whose surgery, Is somebody ill?)", sparking laughter among those present.