Speaking at a press conference at Karachi\u2019s National Stadium, Rizwan addressed Pakistan\u2019s fluctuating results in global tournaments. Since winning the Champions Trophy in 2017, Pakistan have reached the T20 World Cup semifinal in 2021 and the final in 2022 but have otherwise struggled in ICC events, often exiting in the group stages. \"On a personal level, I think we need to improve our awareness and professionalism,\" Rizwan said. \u201cEven now, we have players from whom our people might have less hope but the outside world is watching our players and talking about them,\u201d the skipper said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
He also noted that while local supporters may have reservations about certain players, international cricketing circles recognise and respect their abilities.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
When asked about Pakistan\u2019s tendency to thrive when labelled underdogs, Rizwan quipped, \"If this is how we can win, then you should underrate us only.\" He expressed faith in the team\u2019s work ethic, courage, and intelligence, asserting that divine help would guide them toward the desired results.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Regarding the team\u2019s lineup and tactical approach, Rizwan indicated that the core combination remains unchanged. \"When Babar Azam was captain, we played a semifinal and a final, but we are trying to achieve that one percent that has been eluding us towards the end,\" he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
One of the key talking points has been the opening pair, with Rizwan clarifying Babar Azam\u2019s position. \"If you look at the conditions and analyze what is best for the team, then it is Babar who should open,\" he stated. \u201cIt\u2019s not that we don\u2019t have options, we do have. But if you look at the conditions, Babar is the right man to open. We are not sure about reports of Babar not opening the batting. We want genuine openers, but given the needs of the team, we thought that Babar should open as he is a technically strong batter. He is our opener.\"<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The decision to persist with Babar as an opener was influenced by strategic considerations, including home conditions and the need for a left-right batting combination. \"We needed someone to tackle the spinners, and Babar can do it. He is a solid and technical player,\" Rizwan explained.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Pakistan's premier pacer Haris Rauf suffered a muscular sprain in his lower chest wall during the tri-series, forcing him to miss their last two matches. However, Mohammad Rizwan has confirmed that the pacer has regained fitness and is eager to perform at his best in the Champions Trophy.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cHe is about 80 percent fit and managed to bowl six to eight overs yesterday. Earlier, he was at 60 percent, but today, he is back in full rhythm. He put in a lot of effort at the gym, bowled with intensity, and assured us that he was feeling no discomfort. We are hopeful that he will be fully fit,\u201d Rizwan stated.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Pakistan's premier pacer Haris Rauf suffered a muscular sprain in his lower chest wall during the tri-series, forcing him to miss their last two matches. However, Mohammad Rizwan has confirmed that the pacer has regained fitness and is eager to perform at his best in the Champions Trophy.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
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